TOP DOCTORS 2024: Pulmonology Q&A

Dr. Johnny Wong, partner, Pulmonary Associates of Richmond, Mechanicsville

Other medical specialties: Critical care, internal medicine and sleep disorders 

Education: Bachelor’s degree and medical degree, University of Virginia; internal medicine residency, Medical College of Virginia; pulmonary and critical care fellowship, Vanderbilt University 

Family: Married with three adult children

Career mentor: My wife of 37 years 

Podcast recommendations: “How I Built This” and “Intelligence Squared”

What do you recommend for patients who suffer from sleep apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is often associated with other medical conditions and requires a comprehensive evaluation. Sometimes the treatment plan is straightforward, but often it can require in-depth evaluation and complex care. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines are indicated for most patients with significant OSA. Patients today find masks more comfortable and machines quieter, with features that the sleep specialist can tailor to each patient. Not all OSA patients are the same. It is important to seek out an experienced sleep specialist with trusted colleagues to successfully diagnose, treat and manage OSA. 

How did COVID-19 impact your practice? Pulmonary Associates of Richmond had to adapt quickly as a small business to provide essential hospital- and office-based pulmonary, asthma, sleep and critical care services to the community during lockdown. As pulmonary and critical care specialists, our practice was on the front lines from day one. The speed at which COVID hit our practice was a true test — many of us contracted COVID in the early days and were hospitalized. We feel for all those who have lost loved ones, a livelihood or a business, and admire those who were able to survive and help others along the way. 

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