Dr. Jimmy Chee Wai Kwok – Internist / Geriatrician | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Jimmy Chee Wai Kwok, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Vancouver, BC, he serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to high-quality patient care. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include specialty practice - geriatric medicine and internal medicine, with a focus on providing comprehensive care for adults, including older adults and seniors.

Dr. Kwok graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 1989. He has completed relevant postgraduate training and holds certifications in internal medicine and geriatric medicine, ensuring up-to-date expertise in his fields. His training emphasizes a holistic approach to managing complex medical conditions in adults and seniors, with a focus on improving health outcomes and quality of life.

His clinical philosophy is centered on clear and educational communication, fostering a collaborative relationship with his patients. Dr. Kwok is dedicated to serving the Vancouver community and speaks both English and Cantonese, enabling him to connect effectively with a diverse patient population. He is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care that emphasizes prevention, management of chronic conditions, and maintaining independence for his patients.

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

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

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

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
• Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
• Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.

Dr. Kwok 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.

• Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
• Coordination of Specialist Care: Acting as a central point of contact to help manage and coordinate input from various medical specialists for patients with multi-system diseases.
• Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
• Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Kwok. 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. Kwok'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. Kwok's practice is located in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. The area is known for its proximity to 'The Drive' Neighbourhood and Cultural Hub, offering a lively community atmosphere. Accessibility is excellent via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as multiple bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express at Waterfront Station. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

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

What typically happens during a first consultation?

During your initial visit, Dr. Kwok will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. He will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, he will discuss his findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.

Is the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2) or evaluation of inflammatory markers are crucial, Dr. Kwok also emphasizes maintaining or improving daily function and quality of life, especially for older adults. The goal is often to help patients remain as independent and active as possible, addressing issues like mobility, self-care, and participation in meaningful activities.

Can Dr. Jimmy Chee Wai Kwok provide advice on healthy aging?

Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. Kwok 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.

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

Dr. Kwok'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.

551-550 Broadway W, Unit, Neelu Bachra Centre
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1E9

Phone: (604) 620-8784 | Fax: (604) 620-8724

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kwok 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/307742/Kwok%2CJimmy