About
Dr. Michelle Angeline McDowell, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Calgary, AB, she serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. Her practice is committed to delivering high-quality internal medicine and geriatric care, adhering strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).
Dr. McDowell graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2012 from Antigua and Barbuda. She completed extensive postgraduate medical training, including residency in internal medicine and specialized geriatrics, which equips her with the expertise to manage complex adult and senior health issues. Her certifications include board eligibility in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine, reflecting her dedication to ongoing professional development.
Her clinical philosophy centers on providing compassionate, holistic, and patient-centered care. She values building trusting relationships with her patients and their families, ensuring that every individual feels heard and respected. Dr. McDowell speaks fluent English and is committed to serving the diverse Calgary community with a warm and community-oriented approach.
Dr. McDowell provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
- Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
- Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
- Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- 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.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
Dr. McDowell 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.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Management of Complex Chronic Diseases: Ongoing care and treatment optimization for adults managing multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, hypertension, and respiratory illnesses.
- Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
- Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. McDowell. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. McDowell'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. McDowell's practice is located in the vibrant southeast neighbourhood of Calgary, encompassing Inglewood, Ramsay, and Beltline East. The clinic is conveniently situated near Calgary City Hall and Arts Commons, making it easy to access for patients from various parts of the city. It is well-connected via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus services, and BRT routes, ensuring accessible transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. McDowell? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. McDowell 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. McDowell. 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 typically happens during a first consultation?
- During your initial visit, Dr. McDowell will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. She will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, she will discuss Dr. McDowell's findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.
- What is involved in a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)?
- A CGA is a detailed evaluation specifically designed for older adults. It goes beyond standard medical checks to assess multiple domains including: medical conditions, medication review (polypharmacy), functional status (ability to perform daily tasks), mobility and fall risk, cognitive health (memory and thinking), mood (screening for depression/anxiety), nutrition, and social support systems. Dr. McDowell uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan.
- Is the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?
- While diagnosing and managing diseases like Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers or Urinary Incontinence Assessment is crucial, Dr. McDowell 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 (Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization), and participation in meaningful activities.
100-3916 Macleod Trail SE, Excel Health
Calgary, AB T2G 2C5
Phone: (587) 392-3838 | Fax: (587) 392-3848
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. McDowell 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=9f1cc2e1-83f4-4312-9e2b-d9de41a482b3&i=956