Dr. Aijaz Ahmad – Internist / Geriatrician | Medicine Hat, AB

Dr. Aijaz Ahmad, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Medicine Hat, AB, he serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to high-quality, comprehensive healthcare. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include Nephrology, enabling him to address complex kidney-related issues alongside other systemic conditions. Dr. Ahmad primarily provides care for adult patients, including older adults and seniors, ensuring tailored management for this population.

He graduated with an MBBS degree in 1979 from Pakistan and has completed extensive postgraduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. His certifications include participation in numerous advanced courses and fellowships that enhance his clinical expertise and patient-centered approach. Throughout his career, he has maintained a focus on continuous learning and adherence to evidence-based practices to optimize patient outcomes.

Dr. Ahmad’s clinical philosophy emphasizes a thorough, evidence-informed approach to diagnosis and management. He is dedicated to serving the Medicine Hat community with integrity and professionalism. Fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu, he strives to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations, fostering understanding and shared decision-making in the care process.

Dr. Ahmad provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
• Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Dr. Ahmad manages a wide range of complex adult and geriatric health conditions. This list highlights common areas of focus. If your condition is not listed, please note that internal medicine specialists address diverse and often multi-systemic diseases. Consultation is typically initiated via referral from your primary care physician.

• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• Management of Complex Chronic Diseases: Ongoing care and treatment optimization for adults managing multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, hypertension, and respiratory illnesses.
• Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
• Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
• Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Ahmad. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, he provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Ahmad's scope of practice, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Ahmad's practice is located in the downtown area of Medicine Hat, in the SE Hill and River Flats neighborhood, close to Medicine Hat College and the Cultural Centre, which houses the library and theatre. The location is easily accessible via Medicine Hat Transit, with convenient bus routes serving the area. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Ahmad? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Ahmad are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)) when you present a valid health card and have the required referral. You generally do not pay directly for the consultation service itself. Some specific procedures, forms, or administrative tasks might not be covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) and may incur a separate fee according to provincial guidelines. Please inquire if you have questions about uninsured services.

Can I book an appointment directly or do I absolutely need a referral?

A referral from your family physician or another medical specialist is required to see Dr. Ahmad. As experts in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Internists and Geriatricians see patients based on specific medical questions posed by the referring doctor. This ensures continuity of care and that the consultation is appropriate for your needs. Please have your doctor forward the referral information.

Does Dr. Aijaz Ahmad handle prescription refills?

Generally, ongoing prescription refills should be managed through your family doctor (primary care provider). Dr. Ahmad will make initial recommendations or adjustments, but routine refills are best handled by your family doctor who manages your overall care, unless specific arrangements are made for certain specialized medications.

Can Dr. Aijaz Ahmad provide advice on healthy aging?

Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. Ahmad can discuss evidence-based strategies for healthy aging. This might include advice on appropriate exercise, nutrition, preventative health screenings, vaccinations, cognitive health maintenance, and managing chronic conditions effectively to promote longevity and well-being.

What is the appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24-48 hours' notice so we can offer the time slot to another patient waiting for consultation. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in a missed appointment fee (if applicable per clinic policy). Please contact the office directly to make changes.

666 5 ST SW
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 4H6

Phone: (403) 528-2911 | Fax: (403) 526-5818

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Ahmad is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=2f4f0087-2a10-49d0-9b6a-2eb88610a45a&i=33