Dr. Heywood Shing-Hei Choi, 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, he practices at Heywood Choi Clinic Surrey in Abbotsford, BC, where he is a key member of the local medical community. He adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). His practice primarily centers on the comprehensive management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and lipid disorders, offering a broad scope of hormone and metabolism care. The clinic is dedicated to providing thorough, patient-centered care for hormonal and metabolic health, utilizing advanced diagnostic approaches and individualized treatment strategies.
Dr. Choi graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in Canada. He holds specialty certification as an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His credentials reflect a commitment to maintaining high standards in endocrinology, ensuring patients benefit from the latest evidence-based practices and expertise in hormone and metabolic disorders.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes a commitment to evidence-based hormonal and metabolic care, patient education on managing chronic conditions, early and accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans aimed at long-term well-being. He is dedicated to serving the community in Abbotsford with compassion and professionalism. In addition to English, Dr. Choi speaks Cantonese, which enhances communication and comfort for a diverse patient population.
Dr. Heywood Choi diagnoses and treats a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders, including:
Diabetes & Related Metabolic Disorders
- 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.
- Monogenic Forms of Diabetes (e.g., MODY, Neonatal Diabetes): Rare types of diabetes caused by mutations in a single gene, differing from the more common Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes in presentation and management.
- Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM): Diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy that was not clearly overt diabetes prior to gestation, requiring careful management to ensure healthy outcomes for both mother and baby.
Bone Health & Mineral Metabolism Disorders
- 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.
- Osteopenia (Low Bone Mass): A condition where bone mineral density is lower than normal peak density but not yet low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It indicates an increased risk for developing osteoporosis.
Thyroid & Parathyroid Gland Disorders
- Thyroid Nodules & Multinodular Goiter: Solid or fluid-filled lumps (nodules) that form within the thyroid gland, or an enlarged thyroid gland with multiple nodules. Most are benign but require evaluation for cancer risk.
- Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid - e.g., Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, Post-Ablation): A common condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, and dry skin.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific endocrine condition, please consult with Dr. Heywood Choi.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific tests and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Choi 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.
Heywood Choi Clinic Surrey is situated in the central neighborhood of Abbotsford's Mill Lake Area, offering convenient access for patients from the surrounding community. The clinic is just a short drive from the US Border Crossing at Sumas, making it accessible for patients from nearby regions. Public transit options are available via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit), providing reliable transportation to the clinic. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of entry and movement for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots provide ample options for patients arriving by car, facilitating a comfortable and accessible experience for everyone seeking expert endocrine care.
- Are consultations, hormone tests, and treatments with Dr. Choi, 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. Choi, 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. Choi's office, the hospital/clinic, or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly.
- Is a referral required to see Dr. Choi, 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. Choi. 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 is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and when might Dr. Choi recommend it?
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) involves taking medication to replace hormones that the body is no longer producing in sufficient amounts. Dr. Choi might recommend HRT for various conditions. For example, thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) is used for hypothyroidism. For women experiencing troublesome menopausal symptoms, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT, using estrogen with or without progestogen) can be considered. For men with confirmed hypogonadism (low testosterone) and symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy may be an option. HRT is also crucial for individuals with adrenal insufficiency (cortisol/aldosterone replacement) or hypopituitarism (replacing deficient pituitary hormones). The decision to use HRT is highly individualized, based on the specific condition, symptoms, benefits, and potential risks, which Dr. Choi will discuss thoroughly.
- What conditions does an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) like Dr. Choi typically treat?
- An Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases related to the endocrine system, which includes glands that produce hormones regulating metabolism, growth, reproduction, and overall health. Dr. Choi manages conditions such as diabetes mellitus (type 1, type 2, and atypical forms), thyroid diseases (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, nodules), osteoporosis, adrenal disorders (e.g., Cushing's syndrome, Addison's disease), pituitary gland disorders, calcium and parathyroid imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain lipid and blood pressure disorders linked to hormonal dysregulation. His expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of hormone and metabolism-related conditions, aiming to optimize patient health through precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
Heywood Choi Clinic Surrey
203-2051 McCallum Rd, Gateway Healthcare
Abbotsford, BC V2S 3N5
Phone: (604) 855-0677 | Fax: (604) 855-0722
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Choi 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. Choi 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/331386/Choi%2CHeywood