About
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Mark Choi offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Coquitlam, BC, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Choi adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality medical practice in all aspects of his work. His role within Internal Medicine emphasizes the diagnosis and management of complex adult health conditions, with a particular focus on the unique needs of older adults and seniors.
Dr. Choi graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Toronto in 2008. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, earning relevant certifications to enhance his clinical expertise. His ongoing commitment to professional development ensures he remains current with evolving medical practices and guidelines.
With a professional and clinical approach, Dr. Choi is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. He speaks English and Korean fluently, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations. His commitment to the community of Coquitlam reflects his dedication to improving health outcomes through thorough assessment, personalized treatment planning, and collaborative care.
Dr. Choi provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
- Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
Dr. Choi 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.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
- Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.
- Coordination of Specialist Care: Acting as a central point of contact to help manage and coordinate input from various medical specialists for patients with multi-system diseases.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Choi. 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. Choi'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 British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Choi's practice is located in the vibrant southwest Coquitlam (Maillardville) neighborhood of Coquitlam. The location offers convenient access to the West Coast Express commuter rail and Coquitlam Centre Mall, making it easily accessible for patients in the region. Patients can reach the clinic via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Millennium Line, West Coast Express, and local bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of entry for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing added convenience for those arriving by car.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Choi? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Choi are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Medical Services Plan (MSP)) 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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. Choi. 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 should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?
- Dr. Choi's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.
- Why is reviewing multiple medications (polypharmacy) important?
- As people age or develop multiple health conditions, they often take many medications. Polypharmacy increases the risk of side effects, drug interactions, falls, confusion, and non-adherence. A careful review helps ensure each medication is truly necessary, effective, and safe, potentially leading to deprescribing (stopping unnecessary drugs) and simplifying the regimen.
- What exactly does an Internist (Internal Medicine Specialist) do?
- An Internist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing complex diseases primarily in adults. They are experts in managing conditions affecting multiple organ systems (Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms, Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders), handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.
- What kind of tests might Dr. Choi order?
- Depending on your specific medical situation, Dr. Choi may order various tests to aid in diagnosis or management. These could include blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies (like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans), electrocardiograms (ECGs), or referrals for other specialized tests (like pulmonary function tests or bone density scans). He will explain why any tests are being recommended and how they will assist in your care.
205 - 1046 Austin Ave, General Internal Medicine
Coquitlam, BC V3K 3P3
Phone: (604) 492-4800 | Fax: (778) 328-2257
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Choi 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/333276/Choi%2CMark