Dr. Karen Lien – Internist / Geriatrician | North York, ON

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Karen Lien offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in North York, ON, she serves the surrounding communities, providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Lien’s focus is on delivering patient-centered care that emphasizes accurate diagnosis, effective management, and improved quality of life for her patients.

Dr. Lien graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 2016. She completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency and specialized certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. Her education and clinical experience have equipped her with the expertise to handle complex adult and senior health conditions, ensuring she stays current with evolving medical practices and guidelines.

With a professional and clinical approach, Dr. Lien is committed to serving the North York community with integrity and compassion. She speaks English fluently and is dedicated to providing accessible, evidence-based care that respects each patient’s unique needs and circumstances.

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

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.
• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
• Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
• Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
• Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.

Dr. Lien 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.

• 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.
• Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
• Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Lien. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Lien'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 Ontario (CPSO).

Dr. Lien's practice is located in the central North York area, near well-known neighborhoods and local points of interest. The location is easily accessible via public transit, including subway and bus routes serving the North York community. Patients can find convenient parking options at the facility, and the building is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients. The practice is committed to providing accessible and patient-friendly healthcare services to the North York community.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Lien? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Lien are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)) 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) 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. Lien. 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.

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

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol) or Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions is crucial, Dr. Lien also places significant emphasis on 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.

Is Dr. Lien affiliated with a specific hospital?

Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Lien 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. Lien as needed, or she might be involved in your care depending on the hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.

3rd Floor Rotary, 4001 Leslie St.
North York, ON M2K 1E1

Phone: (416) 756-6000

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lien is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lien-Karen/0310202-109101