About
Dr. Michael Norman Epstein is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in New Westminster, 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 quality and safety in patient care. Dr. Epstein's focus is on providing comprehensive cardiovascular services to adult patients, emphasizing evidence-based medicine and personalized treatment plans.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Dalhousie University in 1984 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Cardiology, including certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training encompassed advanced diagnostic and interventional techniques, positioning him as a knowledgeable and skilled specialist in adult cardiology.
Dr. Epstein's clinical philosophy centers on delivering professional, compassionate, and evidence-based care. He is committed to addressing each patient's unique cardiovascular health needs in the New Westminster community. He communicates fluently in English and prioritizes building trust and understanding through clear, thorough discussions with his patients.
Dr. Epstein provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:
Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management
- Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.
- Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.
- Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease
- Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
- Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.
- Post-Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) Care: Comprehensive follow-up care focused on recovery, secondary prevention, risk factor management, and medication optimization after a heart attack.
Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy
- Management Post-Heart Transplant: Specialized follow-up care for patients who have received a heart transplant (often in dedicated clinics).
- Cardiomyopathy (Various Types): Diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the heart muscle itself, such as dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.
- Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.
Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Epstein is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.
- Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) Interpretation: Analyzing 24-hour blood pressure readings to diagnose hypertension, assess treatment effectiveness, and identify patterns like 'white coat' hypertension.
- Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
- 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.
- Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Epstein. 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. Epstein primarily practices at Epstein Michael Md Frcpc in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster. The location is conveniently situated near Royal City Centre Mall and the Uptown Business District, making it easily accessible for patients. The practice can be reached via TransLink services on the SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Epstein covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Epstein 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. Epstein?
- Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Epstein. 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 are some common heart tests Dr. Epstein might order?
- Common tests include: Electrocardiogram (ECG), Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), Stress Test (treadmill or chemical), Holter monitoring (24hr+ ECG), and blood tests (e.g., cholesterol, kidney function). Depending on your situation, he might also consider Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring, Cardiac CT, MRI, or referral for Cardiac Catheterization if needed. The reason for each test will be explained.
- Will Dr. Epstein communicate with my family doctor?
- Yes, effective communication is key. Dr. Epstein will send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations back to your referring physician to ensure seamless coordination of your overall medical care.
- 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. Epstein. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.
- What is an Echocardiogram (Echo)?
- An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart's chambers, valves, walls, and the blood vessels attached to your heart. It helps assess the heart's pumping function (ejection fraction) and detect structural abnormalities or valve problems. It's a non-invasive and painless test.
Epstein Michael Md Frcpc
201-245 Columbia St E
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W4
Phone: (604) 522-8667 | Fax: (604) 522-8623 | Website: http://new-westminster-bc.cofars.ca/dr-epstein-michael-norman/92338
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Epstein 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/306917/Epstein%2CMichael