Dr. Joelle Margaret Bradley

Dr. Joelle Margaret Bradley provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Acute Conditions

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs - Colds, Flu, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis): Care for acute respiratory illnesses, including advice on symptom management, appropriate use of antibiotics (only if bacterial infection is confirmed or highly suspected), and guidance on when to seek further medical attention for complications.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Care for acute lung infections, focusing on appropriate antimicrobial therapy when indicated, supportive measures (rest, hydration, symptom relief), and guidance for a full recovery, with escalation to hospital care if severe.
• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Back/Neck Pain): Initial assessment, diagnosis, and management of common minor acute injuries like ankle sprains, muscle strains (e.g., hamstring, calf), ligament tears (low grade), and acute episodes of uncomplicated low back or neck pain.

Common Chronic Conditions

• Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's, Nodules): Diagnosis, treatment (e.g., levothyroxine for hypothyroidism, antithyroid drugs or referral for hyperthyroidism), and long-term monitoring of common thyroid conditions, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, to ensure hormonal balance, manage symptoms effectively, and screen for complications like thyroid nodules or goiter. Includes initial investigation of thyroid abnormalities (e.g., ultrasound for nodules) and coordination with endocrinology for complex cases.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) & Associated Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Comprehensive, ongoing management of high blood pressure through regular monitoring (in-clinic and home BP), medication initiation and titration according to guidelines, extensive lifestyle counseling (DASH diet, low sodium, exercise, weight management, stress reduction), and screening/management of associated risk factors (e.g., dyslipidemia, diabetes) to prevent long-term cardiovascular complications.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - Early to Moderate Stages: Early detection, monitoring of kidney function (e.g., eGFR, urine ACR), management of risk factors that can worsen CKD (especially diabetes and hypertension), medication review to avoid nephrotoxic drugs, lifestyle counseling (dietary advice on protein, sodium, potassium), and timely referrals to nephrology for patients with early to moderate stage chronic kidney disease to slow progression and prevent complications.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Supporting the unique physical, emotional, and social health needs of adolescents during this critical period of rapid development, fostering autonomy, responsible decision-making, and a positive transition to adulthood.
• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Comprehensive preventative care designed to support the healthy physical, cognitive, and emotional development of children from birth, building a strong foundation for lifelong health.
• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Helping children and their families manage long-term health conditions effectively, enabling active participation in all aspects of childhood including school, sports, and play, while minimizing symptoms and exacerbations.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Bradley. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Acne Vulgaris & Rosacea Management: Helping adolescents and adults manage inflammatory skin conditions effectively to improve skin appearance and quality of life.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Diagnosing and treating frequent acute illnesses in children and adolescents, such as ear infections (otitis media), streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat), common colds, influenza, croup, bronchiolitis, roseola, hand-foot-mouth disease, gastroenteritis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
• Management of Common Adult Acute & Chronic Illnesses: Providing continuous medical care for adult health issues, from sudden illnesses to long-term conditions, ensuring appropriate treatment and follow-up.
• Sexually Transmitted & Blood-Borne Infection (STBBI) Screening, Counseling & Treatment: Offering routine and risk-based STBBI screening and harm reduction counseling in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
• Comprehensive Periodic Health Exams (Check-ups): Thorough health assessments tailored to age and gender, including physical examination, review of health history, risk factor assessment, and discussion of preventative strategies.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Bradley. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Joelle Margaret Bradley's practice, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Bradley frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Many patients have successfully addressed experiencing unexplained bruising more easily than before with Dr. Bradley's support. This often leads to feeling fully empowered by Dr. Bradley to ask pertinent and challenging questions, openly voice their preferences and values regarding treatment options, and participate actively and meaningfully as a respected partner in all their healthcare decisions and the ability to fully participate in successfully maintaining a clean, organized, and uncluttered living space that actively contributes to their sense of calm, mental clarity, physical safety, and overall feelings of well-being at home once more.
• When needing a medical form filled out for insurance claims, disability benefits, or a new job application impacts daily life, Dr. Bradley helps patients strive for obtaining clear, concise, and actionable guidance from Dr. Bradley on when it's appropriate to seek urgent versus routine medical attention for various common symptoms, promoting appropriate health service utilization, making activities such as successfully maintaining their cherished personal independence in all complex daily routines, intricate personal care tasks, and instrumental activities of daily living, which is especially crucial for aging seniors or individuals managing disabilities possible again.
• It's rewarding for Dr. Bradley to see patients with feeling generally 'unwell' or 'off' without a clear reason for a while achieve receiving appropriate and timely referrals for genetic counseling or testing through Dr. Bradley when indicated by significant family history of heritable conditions or specific clinical findings and return to important activities like thoroughly enjoying a wide and varied range of delicious and nutritious meals with family and friends, both at home and when dining out, without significant digestive discomfort, nagging pain, restrictive dietary limitations, or fear of adverse reactions.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Bradley, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Bradley's practice is located at a family medical clinic in New Westminster, situated in the Downtown New Westminster, Quayside neighborhood of New Westminster. The clinic is conveniently located near Queensborough Landing Outlet Mall and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

How often should I see Dr. Bradley for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups or periodic health exams with Dr. Bradley can vary based on your age, overall health, any existing medical conditions, and specific risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need a full check-up less frequently (e.g., every 2-5 years if no concerns), while children, older adults (e.g., annually over 65), or individuals with chronic conditions may benefit from more frequent visits (e.g., annually or semi-annually). For specific screening tests like Pap smears or mammograms, there are established provincial guidelines based on age and gender which Dr. Bradley follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Bradley to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care. Even if you feel healthy, regular check-ins can be important for early detection and health maintenance.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, driver's medicals) may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources (like a local health authority website or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC patient-doctor matching service, if available) may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor (BC) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC who is accepting new patients?

You can check the website of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC (they often have a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list). Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly. Finding a family doctor can be challenging and may take time.

104-1015 Columbia St, Suite 849
New Westminster, BC, V3M 6V3

Phone: (604) 520-4001

Dr. Joelle Margaret Bradley is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 28172

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/327614/Bradley%2CJoelle

Family doctors like Dr. Bradley are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.