Dr. Michael Brian Dunham – Internist / Geriatrician | Calgary, AB

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Michael Brian Dunham serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Calgary, AB, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality medical services for all patients.

Dr. Dunham graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in 1999. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residencies and certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine, equipping him with advanced knowledge and skills to care for adult and senior patients.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes clear and educational communication, fostering an environment where patients and their families are well-informed and actively involved in care decisions. Committed to the Calgary community, Dr. Dunham speaks English fluently and strives to provide compassionate, evidence-based medical care tailored to each individual's needs.

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

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for 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.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
• 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.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.

Dr. Dunham 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.

• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.
• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Dunham. 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. Dunham'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).

Dr. Dunham's practice is located in the southeast region of Calgary, in the Mahogany and Auburn Bay neighborhoods. The location offers convenient access from the Peace Bridge area and is well-served by Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Dunham? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Dunham 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. Dunham. 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.

Does Dr. Dunham discuss goals of care or advance care planning?

Yes, discussing goals of care is an important part of patient-centered practice, especially in managing chronic illness or in geriatric care. Dr. Dunham encourages conversations about patient values, preferences for future medical treatment, and advance care planning (including identifying a substitute decision-maker) to ensure care aligns with what matters most to the patient. He can provide information and facilitate these discussions.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring:

• Your provincial health card (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card).
• The referral letter if you have it.
• A complete list of ALL your current medications (prescriptions, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbs), including doses. Bringing the actual bottles/packaging is often very helpful.
• A list of your past medical history, surgeries, and known allergies.
• Any relevant medical reports, lab results, or imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI) reports you possess.
• A list of your specific questions or concerns for Dr. Dunham.

Is the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders or Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup is crucial, Dr. Dunham also places significant emphasis on maintaining or improving daily function and quality of life, especially for older adults. The goal is often to help patients remain as independent and active as possible, addressing issues like mobility, self-care (Chronic Liver Disease), and participation in meaningful activities.

4448 Front St SE, 4448 Front St SE Calgary AB
Calgary, AB T3M 1M4

Phone: (403) 956-3864 | Fax: (403) 956-1598

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Dunham 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=a49ad680-a6dd-480d-8005-ac055f70979a&i=403