Dr. Melanie Lisa Brown – Nephrologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Melanie Lisa Brown is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in New Westminster in New Westminster, BC, she is a trusted provider of comprehensive kidney care within the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). As a Nephrologist, she specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming environment for patients, focusing on early detection, prevention, and management of kidney conditions, including support for those on dialysis.

Dr. Brown graduated with her MD from the University of Saskatchewan in 2006. Following medical school, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. She is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 13 years of experience since 2011. She holds key certifications, including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring her qualifications meet the highest national standards. Her extensive training and experience enable her to deliver evidence-based, personalized care to her patients.

Her professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving quality of life for her patients. She is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. Dr. Brown utilizes advanced therapies and the latest evidence-based medicine to optimize patient outcomes. She emphasizes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to deliver holistic and patient-centered care. All communication and consultations are conducted in English, with a focus on compassionate and clear patient engagement.

Dr. Melanie Brown provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Brown addresses management of high blood pressure, especially when it's difficult to control or related to kidney disease, and disorders of body salts and minerals.

• Resistant Hypertension: High blood pressure that remains above goal despite treatment with three or more antihypertensive medications of different classes, including a diuretic.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Kidneys play a key role in regulating acid-base balance. Disorders can be respiratory or metabolic.
• Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Abnormally low or high potassium levels in the blood, which can affect heart rhythm and muscle function.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Dr. Brown addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.

• Post-renal AKI: Treatment involves relieving the obstruction to allow normal urine flow.
• Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Kidney biopsy may be needed for diagnosis in some cases.
• Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Brown addresses disorders that affect the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within the kidneys, often leading to proteinuria, hematuria, and impaired kidney function.

• Nephritic Syndrome: Indicates inflammation of the glomeruli.
• Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): Can be primary or secondary to other conditions. Treatment options vary.
• IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): A common glomerular disease caused by deposits of the antibody IgA in the glomeruli.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Melanie Brown is necessary.

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Utilizing ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and comprehensive medication strategies.
• Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Specialized care for kidney complications arising from diabetes, aiming to prevent or delay progression to kidney failure.
• Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Comprehensive management for patients undergoing in-centre hemodialysis.
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Evaluation and planning for optimal long-term dialysis access, including arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), grafts (AVG), and peritoneal dialysis catheters.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: In-hospital and outpatient follow-up for AKI.
• Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Development of preventative strategies including dietary modifications and medical therapy.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Brown.

All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Brown's primary nephrology clinic is located in the vibrant Uptown neighbourhood of New Westminster, close to Westminster Pier Park. The clinic is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional environment for comprehensive kidney care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for those with mobility needs. Patients can expect a welcoming atmosphere dedicated to their kidney health and well-being.

What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Brown might discuss?

If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Brown may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. Brown will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.

Are services from Dr. Brown covered by provincial health insurance?

Most specialized medical care for kidney diseases provided by Dr. Brown is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes appointments, prescribed kidney function tests, management of dialysis, and care before and after a kidney transplant. Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Brown's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.

How does Dr. Brown help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Managing high blood pressure is a key part of kidney care. Dr. Brown can assess complex cases of hypertension, identify if it's related to kidney problems (renal hypertension), and tailor treatment plans that may include specialized medications or adjustments to existing ones to achieve target blood pressure levels and slow down any kidney damage.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Brown and a Urologist?

The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Brown, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Brown?

A consultation with Dr. Brown is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.

What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Brown specialize in?

A Nephrologist, such as Dr. Brown, is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. This includes managing conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), hypertension (high blood pressure), electrolyte imbalances, and providing care for patients requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. a Nephrologist, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Brown?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Brown for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)). This ensures that Dr. Brown receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 516-7764.

a specialized nephrology clinic in New Westminster
100- 200 Keary St
New Westminster, BC V3L 0A6

Office Phone: (604) 516-7774 | Office Fax: (604) 516-7764

Dr. Brown is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Brown, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Brown's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/330078/Brown%2CMelanie