Dr. Ernest Lai York – Internist / Geriatrician | Wetaskiwin, AB

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Ernest Lai York serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Wetaskiwin, AB, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on comprehensive, evidence-based patient care. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. York’s primary role is to evaluate, diagnose, and manage complex adult health conditions, with a special interest within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care including Respirology, which involves the assessment and treatment of respiratory illnesses common in older adults.

Dr. York graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB BCh) in 1968 from South Africa. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including internships, residencies, and certifications relevant to Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures that his clinical practice remains current with the latest medical evidence and standards of care.

Guided by an evidence-based and informative approach, Dr. York is dedicated to providing quality healthcare to adults, including seniors, in Wetaskiwin and nearby areas. He is committed to promoting healthy aging through personalized management strategies. Fluent in English and Cantonese, Dr. York values clear communication and culturally sensitive care, ensuring his patients are well-informed and actively involved in their health decisions.

Dr. York 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.
• Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.

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.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.

Dr. York 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.

• Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
• Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
• Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• 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.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. York. 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. York'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 Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. York’s practice is located near the central neighborhood of Wetaskiwin, providing convenient access for residents of Wetaskiwin and surrounding communities. The location is easily reachable via local public transit options, ensuring accessibility for all patients. The practice is situated close to local points of interest and community centers, making visits straightforward. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. York? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. York are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)) 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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. York. 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 Dr. Ernest Lai York provide advice on healthy aging?

Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. York can discuss evidence-based strategies for healthy aging. This might include advice on appropriate exercise, nutrition, preventative health screenings, vaccinations, cognitive health maintenance, and managing chronic conditions effectively to promote longevity and well-being.

Is Dr. York affiliated with a specific hospital?

Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. York may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. York as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.

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.

5217 50 St
Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3B8

Phone: (780) 352-7085 | Fax: (780) 352-7870

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. York 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=7cbd210d-a7d2-47dd-a7d5-2ec7e26762ac&i=1598