Ophthalmologist Serving Chilliwack & the Upper Fraser Valley
Dr. Aish Sundaram, MD FRCSC, provides specialist ophthalmology care for Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, Sardis, Yarrow, and all surrounding upper Fraser Valley communities — accessible from her Abbotsford clinic, just 35–40 minutes from central Chilliwack.
Serving Chilliwack patients via Hwy 1 (~35 min)
Getting Here from Chilliwack
For too long, residents of Chilliwack and the upper Fraser Valley faced the choice between long waits at local facilities or a 90-minute drive into the Vancouver metro area for specialist eye care. Dr. Sundaram's Abbotsford clinic changes this equation — offering fellowship-trained ophthalmology within a 35-minute drive for most Chilliwack patients.
Ophthalmology for the Upper Fraser Valley
Chilliwack is a rapidly growing community of over 90,000 people, yet ophthalmology specialist access has historically been limited. Residents of surrounding communities — Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, Kent, Vedder Crossing, Yarrow, Rosedale, Cultus Lake, and Sardis — have even fewer local options. Dr. Sundaram specifically sought to serve this underserved corridor of the Fraser Valley.
As a fellowship-trained specialist in glaucoma and an FRCSC-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Sundaram provides the same level of care that patients would receive at a major academic centre — but in a setting that is far more accessible for upper Fraser Valley residents. All consultations are conducted in English, and our team is committed to ensuring every patient feels welcomed and understood.
Services Available to Chilliwack Patients
Chilliwack residents referred to Dr. Sundaram have access to the full range of ophthalmology services offered at the Abbotsford clinic, including cataract surgery, glaucoma management (diagnostic imaging, medical management, SLT laser, and surgical options), blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), diabetic retinal exams, comprehensive eye evaluations, and co-management of complex eye diseases.
Most medically indicated procedures are covered by BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP). Dr. Sundaram is committed to transparency — she will always clearly distinguish between MSP-covered and privately billed services, and will never pressure patients toward optional upgrades.
For Referring Physicians in Chilliwack
Family physicians and optometrists in Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz, and surrounding communities are warmly encouraged to send referrals to Dr. Sundaram. Referrals can be submitted by fax to (604) 426-2720 or through the Ocean Health eReferral platform. Urgent cases are triaged quickly — please clearly mark the urgency level and include relevant clinical history.
After each consultation, Dr. Sundaram sends a detailed consultation letter to the referring provider within two weeks, supporting collaborative, shared care for your patients.
Services Available to Chilliwack Patients
The full range of ophthalmology services is available for Chilliwack and upper Fraser Valley patients at the Abbotsford clinic — all major services covered by MSP.
Cataract Surgery
MSP-covered lens removal and IOL implantation. Modern, safe, and efficient — most patients experience significant vision improvement within days.
✓ MSP CoveredGlaucoma Management
Advanced diagnostics, SLT laser therapy, medical management, and surgical options. Fellowship-trained expertise in this sight-threatening condition.
✓ MSP CoveredBlepharoplasty
Upper and lower eyelid surgery. Functional cases affecting vision or comfort are covered by MSP. Cosmetic options also available.
✓ MSP (Functional)Diabetic Eye Exams
Retinal screening for Chilliwack's diabetic population. Early detection and monitoring of diabetic retinopathy to protect long-term vision.
✓ MSP CoveredComprehensive Eye Exams
Full ophthalmological evaluation including anterior and posterior segment examination, IOP measurement, and vision assessment.
✓ MSP CoveredEye Disease Co-Management
Collaborative care with your Chilliwack family physician and optometrist for complex chronic conditions.
✓ MSP CoveredCommunities Served in the Upper Fraser Valley
Dr. Sundaram's practice serves a wide catchment area spanning from Chilliwack east to Hope and north to Harrison Hot Springs. Many of these communities have historically been underserved for ophthalmology specialist care — the nearest specialist was often a 90-minute drive or more toward Vancouver.
With Dr. Sundaram's Abbotsford clinic, residents of the upper Fraser Valley can access FRCSC-certified ophthalmology without the long commute — ensuring that postal code does not determine the quality of eye care you receive.
Chilliwack Ophthalmology — Your Questions Answered
Common questions from Chilliwack patients and referring providers about accessing care with Dr. Sundaram.
Can patients from Chilliwack see Dr. Sundaram?
Yes. Dr. Sundaram actively welcomes referrals from Chilliwack-area family physicians and optometrists. The clinic is located in Abbotsford, approximately 35–40 minutes from central Chilliwack along Highway 1. This is a significantly shorter trip than travelling to specialist services in Vancouver or Burnaby.
How far is the clinic from Chilliwack?
The Abbotsford clinic is approximately 35–40 minutes from central Chilliwack via Highway 1 West. For communities further east — Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs — the drive is approximately 50–65 minutes, still considerably closer than Vancouver for most patients.
Is cataract surgery available for Chilliwack residents?
Yes. Chilliwack patients are eligible for the same MSP-covered cataract surgery. Dr. Sundaram performs cataract procedures at a modern surgical facility. Standard surgery is fully covered by BC MSP when medically indicated. Optional premium lens upgrades are available at an additional cost and are clearly explained during consultation.
Do you serve Hope, Agassiz, and Harrison Hot Springs patients?
Yes. Dr. Sundaram's practice serves patients from Hope, Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, and Kent. These communities often have very limited local access to ophthalmology, and Dr. Sundaram's Abbotsford clinic provides a much closer option than Vancouver-area specialists. Referrals from all upper Fraser Valley communities are warmly welcomed.
How do Chilliwack physicians refer patients to Dr. Sundaram?
Chilliwack family doctors and optometrists can send referrals by fax to (604) 426-2720 or through Ocean Health eReferral. Please include patient demographics, MSP number, reason for referral, urgency level, current medications, and vision measurements where available. Urgent cases are prioritized — clearly indicate if same-day or 24-hour review is needed.
What if I have an urgent eye problem in Chilliwack?
For genuine ophthalmic emergencies — sudden vision loss, acute angle closure glaucoma, suspected retinal detachment, or significant eye trauma — go to Chilliwack General Hospital emergency or call 911. For semi-urgent referrals (new glaucoma, elevated IOP, suspected retinal tear), mark the referral urgent and our office will prioritize your appointment.
Expert Eye Care for the Upper Fraser Valley
Chilliwack residents and upper Fraser Valley communities deserve access to specialist ophthalmology close to home. Ask your family doctor or optometrist to refer you to Dr. Sundaram.