Dr. Laurence David Sterns – Cardiologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Laurence David Sterns is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in Victoria, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that all patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate care. Dr. Sterns's focus is on providing comprehensive cardiovascular assessment and management tailored to each individual's needs.

Dr. Sterns earned his medical degree from the University of Alberta in 1985 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology, including certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His educational background and ongoing professional development ensure that he remains current with the latest advances in cardiovascular medicine, allowing him to offer evidence-based, patient-centered care.

With a reassuring and patient-focused approach, Dr. Sterns is committed to supporting his patients in Victoria and the surrounding communities. He speaks English fluently and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their health concerns. His goal is to empower patients through education and personalized treatment plans to improve their heart health and overall well-being.

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

Other Cardiovascular Conditions

• Cardio-Oncology Issues: Monitoring and managing potential heart complications related to cancer treatments.
• Pericardial Diseases (e.g., Pericarditis): Diagnosis and management of inflammation or fluid accumulation affecting the sac surrounding the heart.
• Aortic Diseases (e.g., Aneurysm Monitoring): Medical management and monitoring of conditions affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms (in collaboration with vascular specialists).

Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy

• Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.
• Cardiomyopathy (Various Types): Diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the heart muscle itself, such as dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.
• Pulmonary Hypertension Evaluation: Assessing for high blood pressure in the lung arteries, often related to underlying heart or lung conditions.

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.
• Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.
• Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Sterns is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.

• Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) Interpretation: Expert analysis of ECG recordings to detect arrhythmias, evidence of heart attacks, chamber enlargement, and other electrical abnormalities.
• Management of Cardiovascular Medications: Expert prescribing, titration, and monitoring of medications used to treat various heart conditions and risk factors.
• Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment & Modification: Comprehensive evaluation of individual risk factors (smoking, diet, exercise, family history, etc.) and developing personalized prevention strategies.
• Stress Testing Supervision & Interpretation: Overseeing and interpreting exercise treadmill tests, stress echocardiograms, or nuclear stress tests to assess for coronary artery blockages and exercise capacity.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Sterns. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.

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. Sterns's practice is primarily based at medical facilities in the central Victoria area, offering convenient access for patients in Victoria and nearby communities. The location provides easy access via major north-south routes and is well served by the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Sterns covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Sterns are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the testing facility.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Sterns?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sterns. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.

What is an Interventional Cardiologist?

An Interventional Cardiologist is a Cardiologist with additional specialized training in performing catheter-based procedures like angioplasty and stenting to treat blocked coronary arteries. While Dr. Sterns provides expert medical management, he may refer patients to an interventional colleague if these procedures are indicated. As an Interventional Cardiologist, Dr. Sterns performs procedures like angioplasty and stenting in addition to providing cardiology consultations.

Can my spouse or family member come with me?

Yes, you are welcome to bring someone with you for support or to help listen and ask questions during your appointment with Dr. Sterns. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.

300-3680 Uptown Blvd
Victoria, BC V8Z 0B9

Phone: (250) 595-1551 | Fax: (250) 595-1000

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Sterns 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/306371/Sterns%2CLaurence