About
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Carla Chrusch offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Calgary, AB, she serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Her practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring safe and effective medical management across diverse adult populations.
Dr. Chrusch graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Manitoba in 1989 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized geriatric training. She maintains current certification in her fields and actively participates in ongoing professional development to stay abreast of advances in adult and geriatric medicine.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a professional and clinical approach, combining evidence-based medicine with compassionate patient care. Dr. Chrusch is committed to serving the Calgary community and speaks English fluently. She aims to collaborate closely with her patients and their primary care providers to optimize health outcomes and quality of life.
Dr. Chrusch provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
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.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
- Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
- 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.
Dr. Chrusch 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.
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA): A holistic, multidimensional evaluation tailored to older adults, assessing medical conditions, functional ability, cognition, mood, nutrition, social support, and medication use.
- Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
- Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- 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.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Chrusch. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Chrusch'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. Chrusch’s practice is located in the southwest region of Calgary, within the neighborhoods of Haysboro, Kingsland, and Kelvin Grove. The location provides convenient access to the Commercial Corridor South and Stampede Park, with excellent connectivity via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Chrusch? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Chrusch 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. Chrusch. 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.
- Is Dr. Chrusch affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Chrusch may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at specific local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Chrusch as needed, or she might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.
- What should I bring to my first appointment?
- Please bring:
- Your provincial health card (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card).
- The referral letter if you have it.
- A complete list of ALL your current medications (prescriptions, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbs), including doses. Bringing the actual bottles/packaging is often very helpful.
- A list of your past medical history, surgeries, and known allergies.
- Any relevant medical reports, lab results, or imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI) reports you possess.
- A list of your specific questions or concerns for Dr. Chrusch.
- 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, and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Chrusch, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. She often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.
7007 14 ST SW, ROCKYVIEW GENERAL HOSPITAL
Calgary, AB T2V 1P9
Phone: (403) 934-3788
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Chrusch 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=9e78414a-06b8-420f-af6d-bbca04ca3cbb&i=296