About
Dr. Anke Marie Banks is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Calgary in Calgary, AB, she is a trusted provider of comprehensive kidney care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that every patient receives safe, evidence-based treatment. As a Nephrologist, she specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming environment for patients requiring early detection, ongoing management, and advanced therapies such as dialysis support.
Dr. Banks earned her medical degree (MD) from the University of Alberta in 2006. Following medical school, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine and subsequently specialized in Nephrology through a rigorous fellowship training program. With over 13 years of experience practicing as a Nephrologist since 2011, she has developed a deep expertise in managing complex kidney conditions. She holds all necessary certifications to practice in Alberta, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and patient safety.
Her professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and enhancing the quality of life for her patients. She is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and the latest advancements in nephrology, she focuses on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. Dr. Banks values collaborative care, working closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic and patient-centered treatment in Calgary. All communication and care are delivered in English, with a focus on compassionate, personalized service.
Dr. Anke Banks provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Banks addresses can be primary (originating in the kidneys) or secondary to systemic diseases like lupus or vasculitis.
- Lupus Nephritis: Regular screening for kidney involvement is crucial for lupus patients.
- IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): A common glomerular disease caused by deposits of the antibody IgA in the glomeruli.
- Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): One of the common causes of kidney failure.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Banks addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Management involves treating the specific kidney injury, supportive care, and sometimes dialysis.
- Pre-renal AKI: Kidneys themselves are initially undamaged but are not receiving enough blood.
- Post-renal AKI: Treatment involves relieving the obstruction to allow normal urine flow.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Banks addresses early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CKD.
- Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Can cause fatigue, weakness, and reduced quality of life.
- Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.
- Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Effective blood pressure management is key to slowing progression.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Anke Banks is necessary.
- Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Development of preventative strategies including dietary modifications and medical therapy.
- Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Specialized care for complex autoimmune and inflammatory kidney conditions.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly resistant or secondary hypertension linked to kidney problems.
- Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Evaluation and planning for optimal long-term dialysis access, including arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), grafts (AVG), and peritoneal dialysis catheters.
- Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Preventing fractures and cardiovascular complications related to bone disease.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Home-based therapy allowing for greater lifestyle flexibility.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Banks.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Banks practices at a specialized nephrology clinic situated in Calgary's NW neighborhood, including Bowness, Montgomery, and Greenwood. The clinic is conveniently located near the Downtown Core and is easily accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a professional environment for comprehensive kidney care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for those with mobility needs. Patients can expect a welcoming atmosphere dedicated to high-quality nephrology services in Calgary.
- How does Dr. Banks help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?
- Managing high blood pressure is a key part of kidney care. Dr. Banks can assess complex cases of hypertension, identify if it's related to kidney problems (renal hypertension), and tailor treatment plans that may include specialized medications or adjustments to existing ones to achieve target blood pressure levels and slow down any kidney damage.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Banks?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Banks for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)). This ensures that Dr. Banks receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (403) 476-7764.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Banks and a Urologist?
- A Nephrologist like Dr. Banks is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and managing diseases that affect kidney function, such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, dialysis, and medical aspects of kidney transplantation. Urologists are surgical specialists who treat anatomical or structural problems of the kidneys and urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones requiring surgery, bladder issues, prostate problems, cancers of the kidney/bladder/prostate). While both deal with kidneys, Nephrologists manage kidney function and disease medically, whereas Urologists manage surgically and address urinary tract structures.
- What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Banks specialize in?
- Dr. Banks is a Nephrologist, a physician with specialized training in kidney health and disease. She manages the full spectrum of kidney disorders, from early detection and prevention to advanced therapies like dialysis and post-transplant care. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Banks?
- Dr. Banks is involved in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. This means her role includes assessing if a transplant is a good option for you, helping manage your kidney disease before transplant, and providing ongoing medical care after the surgery. This post-transplant care is vital for the long-term success of the new kidney and involves medication management and regular check-ups.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Banks?
- A consultation with Dr. Banks is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.
- Are services from Dr. Banks covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Banks, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Banks's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Calgary
28 Oki Dr NW, Alberta Children's Hospital
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8
Office Phone: (403) 955-2980 | Office Fax: (403) 476-7764
Dr. Banks is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Banks, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
Verify Dr. Banks's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0a8c9972-9dc3-472a-baad-394741ce5cee&i=135