About
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Glenn Francis Vaz offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Vernon, BC, he serves the surrounding communities. His practice adheres to the professional standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Vaz’s role encompasses comprehensive internal medicine and specialized geriatric care, with a focus on improving health outcomes for adult patients, including seniors.
Dr. Vaz graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 1993. He has completed extensive postgraduate training in internal medicine and geriatrics, obtaining key certifications relevant to his specialty practice. His education and ongoing professional development ensure that he remains current with the latest clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices in adult and geriatric medicine.
Driven by a professional and clinical philosophy, Dr. Vaz is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. He values clear communication and collaborates closely with patients and their families to develop individualized treatment plans. Fluent in English, he strives to deliver services that are respectful, thorough, and tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
Dr. Vaz provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
- 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.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
- 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.
Dr. Vaz 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.
- Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
- Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA): A holistic, multidimensional evaluation tailored to older adults, assessing medical conditions, functional ability, cognition, mood, nutrition, social support, and medication use.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Vaz. 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. Vaz'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. Vaz's practice is located in Central Vernon, within the Downtown neighborhood. The location provides convenient access for residents of Vernon and surrounding areas, including proximity to SilverStar Mountain Resort and the Coldstream area. The facility is accessible via the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The practice is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Vaz? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Vaz 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. Vaz. 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.
- When should someone be referred to an Internist or Geriatrician?
- Referrals are typically appropriate for adults with complex diagnostic challenges, poorly controlled chronic diseases (like advanced Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2) or Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)), multiple interacting medical conditions, or unexplained symptoms. For older adults, referrals are common for geriatric syndromes such as falls, memory decline, frailty, or complex medication management (Delirium Prevention & Management). Your family doctor can best determine if a specialist consultation is needed.
- Is Dr. Vaz affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Vaz may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at specific local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Vaz 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.
- Does Dr. Glenn Francis Vaz handle prescription refills?
- Generally, ongoing prescription refills should be managed through your family doctor (primary care provider). Dr. Vaz 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.
303-3210 25 Ave
Vernon, BC V1T 1P1
Phone: (250) 503-0818 | Fax: (250) 503-0820
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Vaz 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/313476/Vaz%2CGlenn