About
Dr. Benjamin Gershkovich, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Kamloops, BC, he serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include specialty practice—internal medicine—aimed at providing comprehensive management for adult patients, including seniors.
Dr. Gershkovich graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 2017.0, completing relevant postgraduate training and obtaining certifications in internal medicine and geriatric care. He has undergone rigorous training to develop expertise in managing complex adult health conditions and addressing the unique needs of older adults.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes clear and educational communication, ensuring patients and their families understand their health conditions and treatment options. He is dedicated to the Kamloops community, speaking English fluently, and strives to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's circumstances.
Dr. Gershkovich provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
- Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
- Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
Dr. Gershkovich 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.
- Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
- Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.
- Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Gershkovich. 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. Gershkovich'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. Gershkovich’s practice is located in the downtown area of Kamloops, on the South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and is accessible via the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient options for visitors.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Gershkovich? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Gershkovich 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. Gershkovich. 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.
- What should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?
- Dr. Gershkovich's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.
- 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, hypertension (High Blood Pressure), and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Gershkovich, 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.
- What typically happens during a first consultation?
- During your initial visit, Dr. Gershkovich will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. He will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, he will discuss his findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.
311 Columbia St, Royal Inland Hospital Department of Critical Care
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1
Phone: (250) 374-5111
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Gershkovich 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/357875/Gershkovich%2CBenjamin