About
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Balraj Sharma offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Coquitlam, BC, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on patient-centered, evidence-based care. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality medical services for his patients.
Dr. Sharma graduated with his MD from the University of British Columbia in 2018 and has completed relevant post-graduate training and certifications in internal medicine and geriatric care. He has also pursued additional certifications to enhance his expertise in managing complex adult and elderly health conditions, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to patient well-being.
Committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based, and informative care, Dr. Sharma speaks English and Punjabi (Panjabi). He is dedicated to serving the Coquitlam community by addressing the diverse health needs of adults, including older adults and seniors, with a focus on improving health outcomes and quality of life.
Dr. Sharma provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
- Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
- Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
Dr. Sharma 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.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
- Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
- Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Sharma. 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. Sharma'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 British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Sharma's practice is located in the Coquitlam West neighborhood, specifically in the Burquitlam area bordering Burnaby. His clinic is conveniently situated near Como Lake Park and Centennial Secondary School, making it accessible for residents of Coquitlam and nearby communities. Patients can reach the clinic via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Millennium Line, West Coast Express, and various bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Sharma? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Sharma are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Medical Services Plan (MSP)) 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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. Sharma. 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.
- How does a Geriatrician's role differ?
- A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss (Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation), and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Sharma, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. He often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.
- Is the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?
- While diagnosing and managing diseases like Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders or Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders is crucial, Dr. Sharma also places significant emphasis on maintaining or improving daily function and quality of life, especially for older adults. The goal is often to help patients remain as independent and active as possible, addressing issues like mobility, self-care (Urinary Incontinence Assessment), and participation in meaningful activities.
PO Box 64041 Clarke Road
Coquitlam, BC V3J 7V6
Phone: (672) 886-1515 | Fax: (236) 259-1383
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Sharma is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/345919/Sharma%2CBalraj