Dr. Barend Jacobus De Klerk

Dr. Barend Jacobus De Klerk provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Acute Conditions

• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Care for acute lung infections, focusing on appropriate antimicrobial therapy when indicated, supportive measures (rest, hydration, symptom relief), and guidance for a full recovery, with escalation to hospital care if severe.
• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Back/Neck Pain): Providing advice on RICE/POLICE principles (Rest/Protection, Optimal Loading, Ice, Compression, Elevation), pain relief options (analgesics, NSAIDs, heat/cold therapy), and gentle exercises for acute soft tissue injuries to promote healing.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - Cystitis, Pyelonephritis - uncomplicated initial): Addressing common symptoms of UTIs and providing effective, evidence-based treatment to eradicate the infection and restore urinary health.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Creating a safe, non-judgmental, and youth-friendly healthcare environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly, receive accurate information, build a trusting relationship with their doctor, and are empowered to take charge of their health.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): Providing initial guidance and evidence-based parenting strategies, and coordinating timely referrals to appropriate pediatric specialists (e.g., developmental pediatricians, child psychologists/psychiatrists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, audiologists) if further evaluation, diagnosis, or specialized intervention is indicated.
• Childhood Immunization Schedule Management & Counseling: Keeping your child's vaccinations fully up-to-date for their individual protection and to contribute to community (herd) immunity, thereby protecting vulnerable individuals.
• Common Childhood Infections (Viral & Bacterial - Ear, Throat, Chest, Skin, GI): Providing prompt, effective, and child-friendly medical care for common infections and acute conditions to ensure quick recovery, appropriate antibiotic stewardship (avoiding unnecessary antibiotics for viral illnesses), and prevent complications.

Mental Health Concerns

• Initial Assessment & Referral for Other Mental Health Concerns (e.g., OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis): Ensuring individuals with complex or acute mental health needs are connected with the right resources and expertise for effective and safe management.
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Helping individuals navigate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and other depressive symptoms, aiming to restore emotional well-being, daily functioning, and prevent relapse.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Providing primary care support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of ADHD, helping to optimize focus, reduce impulsivity/hyperactivity, improve executive functioning, and enhance overall quality of life and academic/occupational success.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Helping you identify and address factors contributing to poor sleep, and develop effective, sustainable strategies to improve sleep quality, duration, and daytime alertness and functioning.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Klerk. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Assessment of Acute Abdominal Pain, Nausea, Vomiting & Diarrhea: Evaluating acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation to determine potential causes (e.g., gastroenteritis, food poisoning, appendicitis, diverticulitis), provide appropriate management for symptom relief and hydration, or facilitate urgent referral if a serious condition is suspected.
• Evaluation of Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains): Assessing acute injuries like ankle sprains, muscle strains (e.g., hamstring, quadriceps), and ligament injuries, providing advice on RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), pain control, and determining the need for imaging or specialist referral.
• Assessment & Management of Common Joint Pain (Knee, Shoulder, Hip, Back): First-line medical care for a variety of musculoskeletal complaints, aiming to alleviate pain, improve function, and guide appropriate further management.
• Management of Common Adult Acute & Chronic Illnesses: Expert management of prevalent adult health concerns to support optimal health, function, and quality of life.
• Thyroid Disorder Management (Hypo/Hyperthyroidism, Nodules, Hashimoto's): Diagnosis, treatment (e.g., thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism, antithyroid drugs or referral for hyperthyroidism), and long-term monitoring of common thyroid conditions including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, to ensure hormonal balance, manage symptoms effectively, and monitor for complications like thyroid nodules or goiter.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Klerk. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in AB and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

At Dr. Barend Jacobus De Klerk's practice, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Klerk frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• It's rewarding for Dr. Klerk to see patients with needing a doctor's note for work or school due to a recent illness or injury achieve feeling truly empowered with the specific knowledge, practical skills, and continuous ongoing support from Dr. Klerk to make sustainable, positive, and healthier lifestyle choices regarding their nutrition, optimal physical activity levels, restorative sleep patterns, and effective stress management techniques and return to important activities like compassionately providing meaningful emotional, practical, and sometimes physical support to close friends, extended family members, or community acquaintances who may be going through their own difficult times or personal crises.
• Dr. Klerk often sees patients whose a recurring ear infection, or their child tugging at their ear and being fussy limits their enjoyment of enjoying daily life with consistent, vibrant energy, genuine vitality, and a deeply positive outlook on most days. The goal of care is to achieve their newborn receiving excellent, thorough initial care, meticulous monitoring for healthy growth and crucial early development, and invaluable support for new parents during the critical and often overwhelming early weeks of life, all from Dr. Klerk and restore their active lifestyle.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Klerk, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Klerk's practice is located at a family medical clinic in Fort Vermilion, situated in a family medical practice in central Fort Vermilion neighborhood of Fort Vermilion. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

Does Dr. Barend Jacobus De Klerk at his clinic offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr. Klerk offers virtual (video) and/or phone appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, prescription renewals for ongoing medications (not controlled substances), or for certain mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new problems, or situations requiring a physical examination will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Klerk if a virtual appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with our clinic regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in AB who is accepting new patients?

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta often has a ‘Find a Doctor’ tool or list on their website. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also be helpful. Finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging and may take time.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in AB?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see a family doctor if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging, and provincial resources may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

What if Dr. Klerk works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Klerk?

Dr. Klerk practices as part of a team-based practice, which often means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals like nurses, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, or pharmacists working together. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary family doctor, Dr. Klerk, for some urgent issues, routine follow-ups, or specific services, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This collaborative approach can enhance access to care and provide comprehensive support. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Klerk for complex or ongoing issues where that continuity is most crucial.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

Your family doctor (in Alberta) is your primary healthcare provider, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues, from newborns to seniors. They manage acute illnesses and injuries, oversee the care of long-term chronic diseases, provide routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling, administer vaccinations, and ensure you get access to specialized medical services through referrals when needed. The continuity of care they provide, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. Some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, driver’s medicals) may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

PO Box 368, 4502 47 St Fort Vermilion
Fort Vermilion, AB, T0H 1N0

Phone: (780) 927-3223

Dr. Barend Jacobus De Klerk is regulated by the Health Professions Act (Alberta) in AB and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

Registration Number: 019383

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=bc235498-ed9e-4063-9010-ad2feca27727&i=354

Family doctors like Dr. Klerk are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.