Dr. Emily Jennifer Lai – Internist / Geriatrician | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Emily Jennifer Lai is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in New Westminster, BC, she serves the surrounding communities. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality and patient-centered care. Dr. Lai's role emphasizes the diagnosis, management, and coordination of complex medical issues in adult and senior populations, aiming to improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Dr. Lai graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2005. She has completed extensive post-graduate training in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine, including certification through relevant postgraduate programs. Her educational background and continuous professional development enable her to stay current with evolving evidence-based practices and guidelines in her field.

Her clinical philosophy is grounded in an evidence-based and informative approach, prioritizing thorough assessment, personalized treatment plans, and patient education. She is committed to serving the diverse needs of the New Westminster community, speaking English fluently, and fostering collaborative patient-physician relationships to optimize health outcomes.

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

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
• 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.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.

Dr. Lai 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.

• Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
• Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
• Management of Complex Chronic Diseases: Ongoing care and treatment optimization for adults managing multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, hypertension, and respiratory illnesses.
• Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
• Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Lai. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Lai'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. Lai's practice is located in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighbourhood of New Westminster, BC, near Queensborough Landing Outlet Mall. The facility is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The practice is situated in a wheelchair accessible building. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Lai? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Lai 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. Lai. 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.

Can a family member or friend accompany me to the appointment?

Yes, absolutely. Patients are welcome to bring a family member, friend, or caregiver to their appointment for support, to help recall information, or to ask questions. Especially for complex discussions or if memory is a concern, having a second person present can be very beneficial.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?

Dr. Lai's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.

What kind of tests might Dr. Emily Jennifer Lai order?

Depending on your specific medical situation, Dr. Lai may order various tests to aid in diagnosis or management. These could include blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies (like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans), electrocardiograms (ECGs), or referrals for other specialized tests (like pulmonary function tests or bone density scans). She will explain why any tests are being recommended.

How does Dr. Emily Jennifer Lai communicate with my family doctor?

Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Lai will send a comprehensive consultation letter outlining the assessment findings, diagnosis (if established), and treatment recommendations. This ensures your family doctor is fully informed and can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.

330 East Columbia St, RCH Internal Medicine Outpatient Clinic
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7

Phone: (604) 520-4898 | Fax: (604) 398-4228

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lai 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/329183/Lai%2CEmily