Dr. Christine Anne Stables – Neurologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Christine Anne Stables is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within a hospital department in New Westminster, BC, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring she provides safe, ethical, and comprehensive neurological care. Dr. Stables offers detailed assessments and management plans for a broad spectrum of neurological conditions, fostering a supportive environment for patients and their families navigating complex nervous system health issues.

She graduated with her MD from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurologist. Her professional credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her expertise and commitment to excellence in neurological practice. Her training and ongoing education enable her to stay current with advances in neurological diagnostics and treatments, ensuring patients receive evidence-based and personalized care.

Dr. Stables’s clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, emphasizing a holistic approach to neurological health. She believes in thorough patient education, ongoing support, and collaborative decision-making to optimize health outcomes. Fluent in English, she provides compassionate and clear communication, ensuring patients feel informed and empowered throughout their care journey. Her dedication to serving the New Westminster community underscores her commitment to improving nervous system health through compassionate, comprehensive, and innovative neurological care.

Dr. Christine Stables addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.

Cognitive Disorders & Dementia

• Vascular Dementia: Dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to stroke or a series of small strokes.
• Alzheimer's Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior.
• Lewy Body Dementia: A type of progressive dementia that leads to a decline in thinking, reasoning and independent function, often with visual hallucinations and parkinsonian features.

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

• Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
• Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
• Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Christine Stables.

• Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Stables for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Stables practices at a neurology clinic located in the vibrant Uptown neighbourhood of New Westminster, BC, situated within the Uptown Business District. The clinic is easily accessible via public transit, including TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo Line and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, making visits straightforward and comfortable for everyone seeking neurological care in the area.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Stables, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Stables, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Stables's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Stables, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Stables for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?

You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Stables if needed.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Stables will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.

311-233 Nelson's Cres
New Westminster, BC V3L 0E4

Phone: (604) 527-0008 | Fax: (604) 484-2196

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Stables is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Stables for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/330529/Stables%2CChristine