About
Dr. Da-Elene Van Der Merwe is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Kelowna in Kelowna, BC, she is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). As a Nephrologist, she specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
Dr. Van Der Merwe graduated with a MB ChB from the University of Medunsa in 1995, South Africa. Following her medical degree, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. She is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 24 years of specialized experience since 2000. She holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring her practice aligns with national standards of excellence and ongoing professional development.
Her professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. She is committed to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them in shared decision-making. Dr. Van Der Merwe utilizes evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Focused on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications, she collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic, patient-centered care. All communication and care are provided in English, ensuring clarity and understanding for her patients in Kelowna.
Dr. Da-Elene Van Der Merwe provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Van Der Merwe addresses can be primary (originating in the kidneys) or secondary to systemic diseases like lupus or vasculitis.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: Treatment aims to reduce proteinuria and manage symptoms.
- IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Often presents with visible blood in urine during or after an infection.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Indicates inflammation of the glomeruli.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Van Der Merwe is an expert in diagnosing and treating complex cases of hypertension and electrolyte imbalances.
- Resistant Hypertension: Evaluation focuses on identifying secondary causes and optimizing medication regimens.
- Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Imbalances in the body's sodium and water levels, which can lead to serious neurological and systemic complications.
- Secondary Hypertension: Important to consider in young patients or those with abrupt onset of severe hypertension.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Van Der Merwe addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A common complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage the kidneys' filtering units.
- Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Disorders of calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, and vitamin D metabolism leading to bone disease and vascular calcification.
- Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Treated with iron supplements and/or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Da-Elene Van Der Merwe is necessary.
- Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Collaboration with urologists for stone removal procedures when indicated.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Full support for patients on Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) or Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD).
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Addressing common complications of dialysis such as anemia, mineral and bone disorders, cardiovascular issues, and infections.
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: In-hospital and outpatient follow-up for AKI.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly resistant or secondary hypertension linked to kidney problems.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Diagnosis and treatment of complex imbalances in sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and acid-base status.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Van Der Merwe.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Van Der Merwe practices at a specialized nephrology clinic located in the heart of Kelowna's Central Kelowna neighborhood, South Pandosy, and Downtown area. The clinic is conveniently situated near Kelowna General Hospital, making it accessible for patients requiring hospital-based services or consultations. Patients can easily reach the clinic via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with stops nearby, and the facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients. Parking is typically available near the clinic, with some accessible spots, ensuring a smooth and stress-free visit. The environment is professional, welcoming, and dedicated to providing comprehensive kidney care for the Kelowna community.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Van Der Merwe?
- Dr. Van Der Merwe treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Van Der Merwe specialize in?
- Dr. Van Der Merwe is a Nephrologist, a physician with specialized training in kidney health and disease. She manages the full spectrum of kidney disorders, from early detection and prevention to advanced therapies like dialysis and post-transplant care. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- Are services from Dr. Van Der Merwe covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most specialized medical care for kidney diseases provided by Dr. Van Der Merwe is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes appointments, prescribed kidney function tests, management of dialysis, and care before and after a kidney transplant. Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Van Der Merwe's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Van Der Merwe might discuss?
- Dr. Van Der Merwe can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Van Der Merwe would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Van Der Merwe?
- A consultation with Dr. Van Der Merwe is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Van Der Merwe and a Urologist?
- The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Van Der Merwe, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Kelowna
201-3040 Tutt St, Tutt Medical Clinic
Kelowna, BC V1Y 2H5
Office Phone: (778) 484-5111
Dr. Van Der Merwe is a licensed Nephrologist 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 or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Van Der Merwe, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Van Der Merwe's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/343286/Van%20Der%20Merwe%2CDa-Elene