Dr. Kristy Joy Penner

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

Joint Muscle Pain

• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing effective treatment for acutely painful crystal-induced arthritis, focusing on rapid symptom relief during flares, and implementing robust long-term preventative measures for chronic gout to improve joint health and overall well-being.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Recognizing the characteristic clinical presentation of Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) in older adults (typically age >50 years) – symmetrical morning stiffness and aching in the shoulders, neck, and pelvic girdle – often associated with significantly elevated inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP). Initiating treatment with low-dose corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 12.5-25 mg daily) which usually results in a rapid and dramatic improvement in symptoms, thus supporting the diagnosis. Vigilantly screening for and differentiating from Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA/Temporal Arteritis), which can co-exist with PMR (or occur independently) and requires urgent higher-dose steroid therapy and specialist (rheumatology/ophthalmology) referral to prevent irreversible vision loss.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: A first point of contact for work-related or activity-induced repetitive strain injuries, guiding effective conservative management, facilitating return to function, and providing documentation for workplace accommodations if necessary. Referral to specialists (e.g., sports medicine, orthopedics, physiatry) if symptoms are persistent, severe, or require further investigation/intervention.
• Fibromyalgia & Other Widespread Chronic Pain Syndromes - Primary Care Diagnosis & Multimodal Management: Working collaboratively with individuals experiencing chronic widespread pain to develop personalized self-management strategies, set realistic functional goals, and coordinate care effectively with other healthcare providers such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and rheumatologists (for diagnostic confirmation or complex cases).

Common Chronic Conditions

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis): Comprehensive management strategies for COPD, focusing on smoking cessation support (critical for slowing progression), appropriate pharmacological therapy (bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids), supplemental oxygen therapy assessment (if needed), pulmonary rehabilitation referrals, influenza/pneumococcal vaccinations, and proactive management of exacerbations to improve quality of life, reduce symptoms (breathlessness, chronic cough, sputum production), and slow disease progression.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) & Associated Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Individualized, evidence-based care plans for individuals living with hypertension, focusing on patient education, shared decision-making, and promoting long-term adherence to treatment for optimal cardiovascular health.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, B12/Folate Deficiency - Chronic): Primary care approach to identifying and managing deficiencies or chronic conditions that lead to persistent anemia.

Preventative Health Topics

• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Personalized advice and comprehensive care plans for healthy weight loss, prevention of unhealthy weight gain, or management of obesity and its related health conditions (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, certain cancers).
• Travel Medicine Advice & Routine/Travel Vaccinations: Helping you prepare for safe and healthy international travel with essential medical guidance, ensuring you are up-to-date on immunizations and equipped with preventative strategies and medications for common and serious travel-related illnesses.
• Occupational Health Screening & Advice (Basic Pre-placement, Return-to-Work): Guidance on maintaining health in the context of specific work environments and job demands, and initial evaluation for common work-related health issues.
• Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Conducting routine medical examinations as required by provincial transportation authorities for driver's license issuance or renewal, particularly for commercial drivers (truck, bus, taxi) or as mandated by age (e.g., for seniors at specific intervals). Assessing medical fitness to drive based on established national and provincial medical standards, including vision, hearing, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, neurological status, and medication review.

Common Acute Conditions

• 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.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - Cystitis, Pyelonephritis - uncomplicated initial): Addressing common symptoms of UTIs and providing effective, evidence-based treatment to eradicate the infection and restore urinary health.
• 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.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs - Colds, Flu, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis): Diagnosis and management of common viral and bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, sinuses, and larynx (e.g., common cold, influenza, acute sinusitis, strep throat, laryngitis), helping to relieve symptoms like cough, congestion, fever, and sore throat.

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

• Osteoporosis Screening, Prevention & Management: Screening for osteoporosis based on risk factors and age, ordering bone density scans (DXA) when appropriate, and managing osteoporosis with lifestyle advice (calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise), fall prevention strategies, and prescription of bone-building medications.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, Stress): Guidance on making sustainable lifestyle modifications for improved energy levels, weight management, mood regulation, and longevity.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Care (All Ages - Initial & Ongoing): Providing primary care support for individuals and families navigating ADHD, helping to optimize function, manage symptoms, and coordinate multidisciplinary care.
• 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.
• Primary Care for Overuse & Repetitive Strain Injuries: Diagnosing and managing conditions resulting from repetitive stress or overuse, such as tendinopathies (e.g., tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), plantar fasciitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome (initial management).

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Penner. 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 AB and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

At Dr. Kristy Joy Penner'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. Penner frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• For patients where wanting to get a baseline ECG because of family heart history before starting a new exercise program is a concern, Dr. Penner focuses on plans that lead to feeling genuinely reassured, thoroughly well-informed about all aspects of their condition, and like an empowered, active partner in all decisions regarding their health status, treatment options, and long-term care strategies discussed with Dr. Penner, supporting their ability to significantly reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of sick days from common illnesses for themselves and their children, leading to better attendance at work/school, improved overall productivity, and less household disruption.
• Through Dr. Penner's guidance, patients with unexplained significant weight loss or gain that needs to be investigated by a doctor often find they can achieve receiving appropriate and timely referrals for genetic counseling or testing through Dr. Penner when indicated by significant family history of heritable conditions or specific clinical findings and once again pursue proudly and comfortably attending their children's or grandchildren's various school events, important sports games, recitals, graduations, and artistic performances without being hindered by physical discomfort or lack of stamina.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Penner, 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. Penner's practice is located at a family medical clinic in Blairmore, situated in a family medical practice in the central Blairmore neighborhood of Blairmore. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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 AB?

Generally, you don't need a referral to see a family doctor if they are accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor accepting new patients can be challenging. You may find helpful resources on the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta website. A referral is usually required to see specialists.

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

Check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta website, ask for recommendations, or contact local community health centres. It may take time to find a doctor accepting new patients.

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

Your family doctor (Alberta) is your primary healthcare provider, trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues, from newborns to seniors. They manage acute illnesses and injuries, oversee long-term chronic diseases, provide screenings and lifestyle counseling, administer vaccinations, and refer to specialists when needed. The continuity of care they provide is fundamental to effective family medicine.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic is closed?

If you have a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues, consider an urgent care centre or walk-in clinic. Check with our clinic during regular hours to see if after-hours services are available. Our clinic voicemail [(403) 562-8804] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Penner?

Bring your provincial health card, a current list of all your medications, and any related reports (X-rays, specialist letters, lab results). Jot down any questions or symptoms you want to discuss.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Penner?

Contact your pharmacy first, at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can fax a refill request to Dr. Penner's office. Allow 2-3 business days for processing. For certain medications or if it has been a while since your last review, an appointment may be required.

How long do appointments with Dr. Penner typically last?

Regular appointments last about 10-15 minutes. New patient visits or complex issues may require 30-minute appointments. Inform the reception staff when booking.

PO Box 1080, Unit 1 11001 20th Ave
Blairmore, AB, T0K 0E0

Phone: (403) 562-8804

Dr. Kristy Joy Penner is regulated by the Health Professions Act (Alberta) in AB and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

Registration Number: 016756

Verify registration with The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0a130b56-5f6f-40da-a143-b9dfd27587a7&i=1147

Family doctors like Dr. Penner 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.