Dr. Edythe Bing-Ci Tham – Cardiologist | Edmonton, AB

With expertise in Cardiology, Dr. Edythe Bing-Ci Tham provides comprehensive consultations and follow-up care for heart-related conditions. Practicing in Edmonton, AB, she serves patients from the surrounding region. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Tham's focus encompasses a broad spectrum of cardiovascular health, with subspecialty interests or areas of focus including Pediatric Cardiology, ensuring specialized care for patients of all ages.

Dr. Tham graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in 1994 from Australia and completed extensive postgraduate training in Cardiology. Her certifications include board eligibility and recognition by relevant professional bodies, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and ongoing professional development.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes clear and educational communication, ensuring patients understand their conditions and treatment options. She is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care in Edmonton, speaking fluent English, and collaborating closely with other healthcare providers to optimize cardiovascular health outcomes.

Dr. Tham provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Advanced Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol) Management: Treatment of complex or severe cholesterol disorders, especially in patients with high cardiovascular risk or medication intolerance.
• Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.
• Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease

• Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
• Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.
• Management after Coronary Stenting (PCI): Monitoring and medical management following procedures to open blocked heart arteries with stents, including antiplatelet therapy guidance.

Other Cardiovascular Conditions

• Pericardial Diseases (e.g., Pericarditis): Diagnosis and management of inflammation or fluid accumulation affecting the sac surrounding the heart.
• Cardio-Oncology Issues: Monitoring and managing potential heart complications related to cancer treatments.
• Aortic Diseases (e.g., Aneurysm Monitoring): Medical management and monitoring of conditions affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms (in collaboration with vascular specialists).

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Tham is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.

• Pediatric Cardiology Consultation: Diagnosis and management of heart conditions specifically in infants, children, and adolescents.
• Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
• Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
• Stress Testing Supervision & Interpretation: Overseeing and interpreting exercise treadmill tests, stress echocardiograms, or nuclear stress tests to assess for coronary artery blockages and exercise capacity.
• Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment & Modification: Comprehensive evaluation of individual risk factors (smoking, diet, exercise, family history, etc.) and developing personalized prevention strategies.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Tham. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Tham primarily practices at medical facilities located in the south-central region of Edmonton, near the University of Alberta and the Garneau and Windsor Park neighborhoods. The practice is conveniently situated close to the Neon Sign Museum, making it easily accessible for local residents. Patients can reach the clinic via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Tham covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Tham are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the testing facility.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Tham?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tham. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.

What is an Interventional Cardiologist?

An Interventional Cardiologist is a Cardiologist with additional specialized training in performing catheter-based procedures like angioplasty and stenting to treat blocked coronary arteries. While Dr. Tham provides expert medical management, she may refer patients to an interventional colleague if these procedures are indicated. As an interventional cardiologist, Dr. Tham performs procedures such as angioplasty and stenting in addition to providing cardiology consultations.

Does Dr. Tham replace my family doctor for general care?

No, Dr. Tham focuses specifically on your cardiovascular health as a specialist consultant. Your family doctor remains central to your overall healthcare, managing other health issues and coordinating routine care. Dr. Tham collaborates closely with your family doctor, providing reports and recommendations.

Does Dr. Tham provide refills for my heart medications?

Dr. Tham will typically initiate or adjust specialized heart medications. However, for stable, ongoing prescriptions, refills should generally be obtained through your family doctor, who manages your overall medication list. Please ensure you have enough medication until your next family doctor visit unless instructed otherwise.

What should I bring to my first cardiology appointment?

Please bring:

• Your provincial health card (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card).
• The referral letter.
• A complete list of ALL current medications (including doses and frequencies). Bringing the bottles is best.
• A list of past medical conditions, surgeries, and allergies.
• Any relevant medical reports or test results (e.g., recent ECGs, blood work).
• A list of your symptoms and questions for Dr. Tham.

8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Phone: (780) 407-3355

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Tham 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=4668bc06-f8a6-4f5c-9fec-6c3e15a12475&i=1437