Dr. Kurt Lewis Olson is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Lethbridge, AB, he serves the surrounding communities. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. Dr. Olson's approach emphasizes thorough assessment and individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique health needs.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2014 from the United States of America. Following his medical degree, he completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized geriatric care, acquiring key certifications that underscore his expertise in managing complex adult health issues. This rigorous training equips him with the skills necessary for comprehensive diagnosis and management of a broad spectrum of medical conditions affecting adults and seniors.
Dr. Olson's clinical philosophy is rooted in professionalism and a commitment to evidence-based practice. He strives to provide compassionate, thorough, and effective care, fostering strong patient-physician relationships. Fluent in English and Spanish, he is able to serve diverse patient populations in Lethbridge and values ongoing education to stay current with medical advancements. His dedication to the community and to his patients underscores his role as a trusted healthcare provider.
Dr. Olson 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.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
- Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
Dr. Olson 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.
- Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
- Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
- Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Olson. 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. Olson'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 Alberta (CPSA).
Practicing in Downtown Lethbridge within the South Lethbridge East neighborhood, Dr. Olson's clinic is conveniently situated near Exhibition Park and the Commercial Corridor South. The location is accessible via Lethbridge Transit, ensuring ease of access for patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Olson? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Olson are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)) 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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. Olson. 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 is the appointment cancellation policy?
- We understand that unforeseen circumstances arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24-48 hours notice so we can offer the time slot to another patient waiting for consultation. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in a missed appointment fee (if applicable per clinic policy). Please contact the office directly to make changes.
- How long should I expect my appointment to last?
- Initial consultations with Dr. Olson are comprehensive and typically require more time, often ranging from 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical history and concerns. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter. We recommend allowing ample time for your visit, including check-in and potential waiting periods.
1244 3 Ave S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 0J9
Phone: (403) 320-0633 | Fax: (403) 320-0353
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Olson is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=7f714d9b-e682-47d8-873c-9c51deabee62&i=1095