Dr. Emily Elise Henderson – Endocrinologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Emily Elise Henderson, a Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus), provides expert care for adult patients, and may also see older adolescents for certain endocrine conditions. With conditions related to Diabetes & Metabolism, she practices at an endocrinology clinic within a hospital department in Victoria, BC. She is a valued member of the local medical community, adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her role involves comprehensive management of hormonal and metabolic health, emphasizing patient-centered care and evidence-based practices.

Practicing primarily in Victoria, Dr. Henderson's focus is on delivering personalized endocrine and metabolic health services. She is dedicated to ensuring each patient receives thorough evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment plans. Her approach emphasizes collaboration, patient education, and long-term management to optimize health outcomes for her diverse adult patient population.

Dr. Henderson completed her medical degree with an MB BCh BAO from University College Cork School of Medicine in the United Kingdom. She holds specialty certification as an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) recognized by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her certifications include additional credentials acknowledged by the College Registration Committee, underscoring her expertise and commitment to professional excellence in hormone and metabolism care.

Dr. Emily Henderson diagnoses and treats a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders, including:

Diabetes & Related Metabolic Disorders

• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol, High Triglycerides, Low HDL): Abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, including elevated LDL ('bad') cholesterol, high triglycerides, or low HDL ('good') cholesterol, significantly increasing cardiovascular disease risk.
• Diabetes Complications (Neuropathy, Nephropathy, Retinopathy - endocrine management aspects): Management focused on glycemic, blood pressure, and lipid control to prevent or slow the progression of nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye damage associated with diabetes.
• Prediabetes & Insulin Resistance: A state where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Insulin resistance is a key feature, where cells don't respond well to insulin.

Bone Health & Mineral Metabolism Disorders

• Osteoporosis (Postmenopausal, Senile, Glucocorticoid-Induced): A progressive bone disease characterized by decreased bone mass and density, leading to an increased risk of fractures, particularly of the hip, spine, and wrist.
• Rickets & Osteomalacia: Conditions characterized by softening and weakening of bones, typically due to severe and prolonged vitamin D deficiency. Rickets occurs in children, leading to skeletal deformities, while osteomalacia occurs in adults.

Pituitary, Adrenal & Gonadal Axis Disorders

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Endocrine Management: A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, signs of androgen excess (e.g., hirsutism, acne), and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound, with associated metabolic risks.
• Pituitary Adenomas & Tumors (e.g., Prolactinoma, Non-Functioning Adenoma, GH-secreting/Acromegaly, ACTH-secreting/Cushing's Disease): Mostly benign growths in the pituitary gland that can cause symptoms due to hormone overproduction (e.g., prolactin, growth hormone, ACTH), hormone deficiency (hypopituitarism), or pressure effects on surrounding structures.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific endocrine condition, please consult with Dr. Emily Henderson.

• Genetic Counseling Coordination & Testing for Hereditary Endocrine Neoplasia Syndromes & Familial Disorders: Risk assessment and coordination of genetic testing and counseling for individuals and families with suspected hereditary endocrine tumor syndromes (e.g., Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia - MEN1, MEN2; Von Hippel-Lindau), familial thyroid cancer, or other inherited endocrine conditions.
• Comprehensive Endocrine System Consultation & Hormonal Health Evaluation: In-depth clinical assessment of potential hormonal imbalances and disorders affecting the endocrine glands (e.g., thyroid, pituitary, adrenal, pancreas, parathyroid, gonads). Includes detailed medical history, family history review, targeted physical examination, analysis of symptoms, and formulation of a personalized diagnostic and management plan.
• Interpretation of Complex Hormonal Assays, Dynamic Endocrine Function Tests & Genetic Markers: Expert analysis and clinical correlation of specialized blood, urine, and saliva tests measuring various hormone levels. Includes interpretation of dynamic stimulation and suppression tests (e.g., ACTH stimulation, dexamethasone suppression, oral glucose tolerance test for acromegaly) to precisely evaluate endocrine gland function and identify genetic predispositions.
• Inpatient & Outpatient Management of Endocrine Emergencies & Crises: Acute diagnosis and management of potentially life-threatening hormonal imbalances such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), thyroid storm, myxedema coma, adrenal crisis, severe hypoglycemia, and acute hyper/hypocalcemia, typically initiated in an emergency or hospital setting with ongoing outpatient follow-up.
• Expert Second Opinion Consultations for Complex or Rare Endocrine Disorders: Providing specialized second opinions on challenging endocrine diagnoses, interpretation of ambiguous hormone test results, or evaluation of complex or multi-faceted treatment plans.
• Transitional Care for Young Adults with Chronic Endocrine Conditions: Facilitating the smooth transition of adolescents and young adults with lifelong endocrine disorders (e.g., Type 1 diabetes, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypopituitarism) from pediatric to adult endocrine care services.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific tests and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Henderson for care relevant to your specific condition.

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 endocrinological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Henderson practices within an endocrinology clinic located in the Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is set in a modern medical facility near the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and Craigdarroch Castle, offering a culturally enriching environment. Accessible by the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), the location is convenient for public transportation users. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing ample options for those arriving by car. The practice aims to serve patients with comprehensive, compassionate, and accessible hormone and metabolism care.

Are consultations, hormone tests, and treatments with Dr. Henderson, an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus), covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) like Dr. Henderson, most standard diagnostic hormone blood tests, dynamic endocrine function tests when indicated, and treatments for provincially insured endocrine conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, osteoporosis management as per guidelines) are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer or specialized medications (e.g., certain advanced diabetes drugs, some growth hormone therapies, specific osteoporosis agents), medical devices (like some insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors and their supplies), or treatments considered primarily for lifestyle or cosmetic reasons may have different coverage criteria or require special authorization. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed investigation or treatment with Dr. Henderson's office, the hospital/clinic, or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly.

Is a referral required to see Dr. Henderson, an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus)?

Yes, for services covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an internist, pediatrician, or gynecologist) is almost always required to schedule an appointment with an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) such as Dr. Henderson. Endocrine system disorders often involve complex interactions and can have wide-ranging effects, so an initial assessment by your primary care provider helps determine if specialist care is needed and ensures that relevant preliminary tests and medical history are available to the endocrinologist. This facilitates a more focused and efficient consultation.

What treatment options for osteoporosis might Dr. Henderson discuss?

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, Dr. Henderson will discuss a management plan aimed at reducing your risk of fractures. This starts with lifestyle modifications, including ensuring adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D (through diet and/or supplements), engaging in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol intake. Fall prevention strategies are also important. If medication is indicated based on your bone density (DXA scan) and fracture risk assessment (e.g., using FRAX or CAROC tools), options include antiresorptive medications that slow bone loss (like bisphosphonates or denosumab) or anabolic agents that stimulate new bone formation (like teriparatide or romosozumab). She will help choose the most appropriate therapy based on your individual circumstances, potential side effects, and treatment goals.

What symptoms might lead my doctor to refer me to an Endocrinologist like Dr. {provider_name_doctor_last}?

Your doctor might refer you to an Endocrinologist like Dr. Dr. Henderson if you have symptoms or test results suggestive of a hormone imbalance or endocrine gland problem. This could include: unexplained significant weight gain or loss; persistent fatigue or lethargy; changes in mood or energy levels; excessive thirst or urination; new or worsening high blood sugar; symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid (e.g., palpitations, heat/cold intolerance, changes in hair/skin); bone density loss (osteoporosis); recurrent kidney stones; menstrual irregularities or fertility issues; unexplained high blood pressure; or physical changes like excessive hair growth, acromegaly features, or signs of Cushing's syndrome.

306-1964 Fort St
Victoria, BC V8R 6R3

Phone: (250) 590-2694 | Fax: (250) 900-2034

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Henderson is a licensed Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) 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 appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Henderson 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/376910/Henderson%2CEmily