About
Dr. David John Shanks is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Victoria, BC, he serves the surrounding communities, ensuring access to personalized and evidence-based care. As a licensed physician registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), he adheres to the highest standards of medical practice and ethics.
Dr. Shanks graduated with an MD CM from McGill University in 2007 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in internal medicine and geriatrics. He holds key certifications in advanced geriatric care, internal medicine, and related subspecialties, ensuring his practice remains aligned with current clinical guidelines and research evidence.
His clinical philosophy centers on an evidence-based and patient-centered approach. He is committed to ongoing professional development and strives to deliver care that is respectful, informed, and tailored to each patient’s unique health needs. Dr. Shanks speaks English fluently and is dedicated to serving the diverse adult population in Victoria, including older adults and seniors.
Dr. Shanks provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
- Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
- Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
Dr. Shanks 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.
- Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.
- Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
- Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
- Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Shanks. 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. Shanks'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. Shanks's practice is located in the Fairfield East neighborhood of Victoria, BC, within the Oaklands area. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Bay Centre Shopping Mall, making it accessible for patients in the region. The facility is easily reachable via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The practice location is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for patients with mobility needs.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Shanks? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Shanks 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. Shanks. 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.
- Does Dr. David John Shanks handle prescription refills?
- Generally, ongoing prescription refills should be managed through your family doctor (primary care provider). Dr. Shanks will make initial recommendations or adjustments, but routine refills are best handled by your family doctor who manages your overall care, unless specific arrangements are made for certain specialized medications.
- Does Dr. David John Shanks discuss goals of care or advance care planning?
- Yes, discussing goals of care is an important part of patient-centered practice, especially in managing chronic illness or in geriatric care. Dr. Shanks encourages conversations about patient values, preferences for future medical treatment, and advance care planning (including identifying a substitute decision-maker) to ensure care aligns with what matters most to the patient. He can provide information and facilitate these discussions.
1952 Bay St, Royal Jubilee Hospital
Victoria, BC V8R 1J8
Phone: (250) 370-8743 | Fax: (250) 519-1871
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Shanks 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/332615/Shanks%2CDavid