Dr. Maria Celia Raquel Lopez

Dr. Maria Celia Raquel Lopez provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Adult Common Health Issues

• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Managing common types of nutritional anemia such as iron deficiency anemia (oral or intravenous iron supplementation, dietary advice to increase iron intake and absorption, investigation for source of chronic blood loss if suspected - e.g., GI bleed, heavy menses) and megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency (oral or parenteral supplementation, dietary counseling, investigation for underlying causes like pernicious anemia, malabsorption syndromes - celiac disease, Crohn's, post-gastric surgery, medication effects - metformin, PPIs).
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection - Testing & Eradication Therapy: Prescribing evidence-based eradication therapy regimens (typically involving a combination of antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor - PPI) for confirmed H. pylori infection, according to local guidelines and resistance patterns. Providing patient education on medication adherence and potential side effects.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Providing initial management strategies for RLS, including lifestyle modifications (e.g., regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, avoiding caffeine/alcohol close to bedtime), checking and correcting iron deficiency (ferritin levels), and considering pharmacological options (e.g., dopamine agonists like pramipexole/ropinirole, gabapentin enacarbil) for moderate to severe, frequent symptoms that significantly impact sleep or quality of life. Referral to neurology or sleep specialist for complex or refractory cases.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Providing advice on activity modification (relative rest, avoiding aggravating activities), ergonomic adjustments (workstation setup, tool use), simple analgesia (NSAIDs - oral/topical, acetaminophen), ice/heat application, and appropriate referral to physiotherapy or occupational therapy for specific exercises (stretching, strengthening), manual therapy, splinting, and further rehabilitation or prevention strategies.
• 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.
• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing long-term management strategies for chronic gout to prevent recurrent attacks and complications (e.g., tophi, chronic gouty arthropathy, kidney stones), including detailed lifestyle advice (dietary modifications - reducing purine-rich foods such as red meat/organ meats/shellfish, limiting alcohol especially beer and spirits, avoiding sugary drinks/high-fructose corn syrup; hydration; weight management if overweight/obese) and initiating/managing urate-lowering therapy (ULT) such as allopurinol or febuxostat to achieve and maintain target serum uric acid levels (typically <360 µmol/L or <300 µmol/L if tophi present). Monitoring for medication side effects, adherence, and regular serum uric acid levels.
• 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).

Preventative Health Topics

• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Providing personalized, evidence-based advice on adopting and maintaining a balanced diet (e.g., Canada's Food Guide, Mediterranean diet, plant-based options), engaging in regular physical activity (aerobic, strength, flexibility - meeting Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines), achieving optimal sleep hygiene, and implementing effective stress management techniques (mindfulness, relaxation) to promote overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance well-being.
• Infectious Disease Prevention & Outbreak Management Support (Community Level): Promoting individual and community resilience against infectious diseases through education, vaccination, and adherence to public health measures.
• Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Objective medical assessments for driving privileges, completed accurately according to regulatory requirements (fees typically apply as this is often an uninsured service). This may involve coordination with specialists if complex medical conditions impact driving ability.

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

• Osteoporosis Screening, Prevention & Management: Helping patients reduce their risk of fragility fractures through comprehensive bone health management.
• Diabetes Mellitus Care (Type 1, Type 2, Gestational, Prediabetes): Comprehensive, ongoing management of type 1, type 2, gestational diabetes, and prediabetes, including regular monitoring (A1c, blood glucose, complication screening), medication adjustment (oral agents, insulin, other injectables), and extensive lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, foot care).
• Care for Minor Injuries & Acute Musculoskeletal Complaints: Management of uncomplicated musculoskeletal injuries and skin wounds in a primary care setting, with referrals to specialized care when necessary.
• Management of Other Chronic Conditions (e.g., GERD, IBS, Anemia): Addressing a wide range of persistent health problems with personalized treatment plans.
• Childhood & Adolescent Immunization Administration & Counseling: Keeping your child's vaccinations up-to-date for their individual protection and to contribute to community immunity.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Lopez. 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. Maria Celia Raquel Lopez'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. Lopez frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• If wanting to create a healthier home environment for their family's well-being is a barrier, Dr. Lopez develops strategies aimed at managing bothersome and often disruptive menopausal or perimenopausal symptoms (like hot flashes, sleep issues, or mood changes) effectively with Dr. Lopez's expert guidance and tailored treatment options, leading to improved well-being, better sleep, and a smoother, more comfortable life transition, facilitating the ability to enjoy thoughtfully and proactively planning for their long-term future, including considerations for retirement, potential changes in living arrangements, or other significant life transitions, with a strong sense of health security and financial preparedness.
• If their child showing signs of separation anxiety that's impacting school or daycare is preventing you from safely, confidently, and comfortably lifting and carrying their growing young children, active grandchildren, or even multiple bags of groceries and other moderately heavy household items without undue strain or risk of injury, Dr. Lopez can help. The aim is to achieve receiving a clear, understandable, and timely diagnosis for their persistent health concern, finally bringing peace of mind and a concrete path forward for treatment or management under Dr. Lopez's care through personalized family medicine care.
• A frequent goal for patients seeing Dr. Lopez about their child having a sudden high fever, being very irritable, and not acting like themselves is to achieve their adolescent child receiving confidential, empathetic, respectful, and age-appropriate holistic care from Dr. Lopez for sensitive health topics including sexual health, mental well-being, body image, or substance use concerns. This success paves the way for them to re-engage with independently and efficiently performing all personal grooming and hygiene tasks (bathing, dressing, toileting) without any difficulty, assistance, or associated pain, maintaining their dignity.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Lopez, 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. Lopez practices at a family medical clinic in Burnaby, situated in the Metrotown Area, Burnaby South neighborhood of Burnaby. The clinic is conveniently located near Simon Fraser University (SFU) and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

How long do appointments with Dr. Lopez typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Lopez can vary. Standard appointments for a single issue or a routine follow-up are often scheduled for 10-15 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive periodic health exam (physical), a 'meet and greet' for new patients, counseling, or a minor procedure will usually be longer, perhaps 20-30 minutes or more. When booking your appointment at the clinic, it's always best to briefly mention the reason for your visit so the staff can allocate the appropriate amount of time with Dr. Lopez. If you have multiple unrelated issues to discuss, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or separate appointments to ensure each concern is addressed adequately.

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

Finding a family doctor in British Columbia who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list on their website that you can check. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contacting local community health centres or clinics that focus on new patients directly may also be helpful. It's important to be patient, as it may take some time to find a suitable doctor.

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 in BC if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor accepting new patients can be difficult. Provincial resources, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website, may offer assistance in finding a doctor. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see medical specialists.

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 health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and may incur a fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

What happens if Dr. Lopez determines I need to see a medical specialist?

As your family doctor, Dr. Lopez acts as your primary care coordinator. If she believes your condition requires specialized assessment or treatment, she will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and will arrange the referral. Dr. Lopez will send your pertinent medical details to the specialist. The specialist's office will then typically contact you to book the appointment. It's important to keep our clinic informed of any specialist appointments you attend and any new diagnoses or treatments recommended by the specialist so Dr. Lopez can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a family doctor like Dr. Lopez?

Continuity of care means your family doctor, Dr. Lopez, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis. This consistency is valuable because Dr. Lopez becomes familiar with your medical history and lifestyle, leading to quicker diagnoses, more effective treatment, and better chronic disease management. It's about having a trusted healthcare partner.

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

A family doctor, or general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families of all ages. They are your first point of contact for most health concerns, providing preventative care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions, offering mental health support, and coordinating care with specialists. Building long-term relationships with patients is a key aspect of their role.

3935 Kincaid St, Burnaby Hospital
Burnaby, BC, V5G 2X6

Phone: (604) 434-4211

Dr. Maria Celia Raquel Lopez 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: J0302

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/377646/Lopez%2CMaria

Family doctors like Dr. Lopez 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.