Dr. Mindy Ching Wan Lam – Gastroenterologist | New Westminster, BC

Dr. Mindy Ching Wan Lam is a dedicated Gastroenterologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of disorders affecting the digestive system in adult patients, and may also see older adolescents for certain conditions. Practicing at a gastroenterology clinic within New Westminster, BC, she is a key member of the local medical community. Her practice adheres strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Lam provides comprehensive care for a broad spectrum of digestive system disorders, including conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas, utilizing both diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy to optimize patient outcomes.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Alberta in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Gastroenterologist. Her credentials include certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards in digestive health care. Dr. Lam continuously updates her knowledge through ongoing education and clinical practice to ensure her patients receive the most current and effective treatments available.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes evidence-based digestive health care, patient education on gastrointestinal conditions and lifestyle modifications, and early and accurate diagnosis through advanced procedures. She is dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs while fostering a supportive environment. Fluent in both English and Cantonese, Dr. Lam is committed to ensuring clear communication and compassionate care for her patients in New Westminster and surrounding communities.

Dr. Mindy Lam diagnoses and treats a wide range of digestive system disorders, including:

Functional Gastrointestinal & Motility Disorders

• Chronic Idiopathic Constipation (CIC) & Opioid-Induced Constipation (OIC): Persistent constipation that does not have an identifiable underlying cause (CIC) or is a side effect of opioid medications (OIC).
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction & Anorectal Disorders (e.g., Dyssynergic Defecation): Inability to correctly relax and coordinate pelvic floor muscles to facilitate a normal bowel movement, often requiring specialized testing like anorectal manometry and biofeedback therapy.
• Functional Dyspepsia & Epigastric Pain Syndrome: Persistent or recurrent pain or discomfort centered in the upper abdomen (dyspepsia) or specifically in the epigastric region, without an identifiable structural cause after investigation.

Esophageal, Stomach & Upper GI Disorders

• Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): A chronic immune system disease characterized by a buildup of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the esophagus, causing inflammation, difficulty swallowing, food impaction, and chest pain.
• Dysphagia (Difficulty Swallowing) & Odynophagia (Painful Swallowing): Symptoms requiring investigation to determine underlying causes, which can range from structural abnormalities and motility disorders to inflammatory conditions or tumors.

Liver, Gallbladder, Bile Duct & Pancreatic Disorders

• Chronic Viral Hepatitis (Hepatitis B, C, D): Long-term viral infections that cause inflammation and damage to the liver, potentially leading to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer if untreated.
• Pancreatitis (Acute Recurrent & Chronic): Inflammation of the pancreas that can be sudden and severe (acute), recurrent, or long-lasting (chronic), causing significant abdominal pain and digestive enzyme deficiencies.
• Autoimmune Liver Diseases (Autoimmune Hepatitis, PBC, PSC): Conditions where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells (Autoimmune Hepatitis), bile ducts within the liver (Primary Biliary Cholangitis), or larger bile ducts inside and outside the liver (Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis).

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific digestive condition, please consult with Dr. Mindy Lam.

• Management of Chronic Constipation & Chronic Diarrhea (idiopathic & secondary): Systematic investigation into underlying causes (including motility testing where appropriate) and tailored treatment strategies for persistent constipation or diarrhea not attributed to other major GI diseases.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) - Diagnostic & Therapeutic: Specialized procedure combining upper endoscopy and X-rays to diagnose and treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts, such as gallstone removal from bile duct, stent placement for strictures or leaks, and sphincterotomy.
• Endoscopic Hemostasis for Acute & Chronic GI Bleeding: Various endoscopic techniques (e.g., injection therapy, thermal coagulation/APC, mechanical clips, hemostatic sprays) used to stop acute or recurrent bleeding from ulcers, varices, angiodysplasias, or tumors in the GI tract.
• Enteroscopy (e.g., Double-Balloon, Single-Balloon, Spiral Enteroscopy): Advanced endoscopic techniques allowing deep visualization, biopsy, and therapy within the small intestine, beyond the reach of standard endoscopes, for conditions like obscure bleeding or small bowel tumors.
• Endoscopic Dilation of Gastrointestinal Strictures (Esophageal, Pyloric, Colonic): Procedure to stretch narrowed areas (strictures) in the esophagus (e.g., due to reflux, EoE), stomach outlet (pylorus), small intestine, or colon using balloons or Savary-Gilliard dilators passed through an endoscope.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Complex Digestive Diseases: Providing expert second opinions on challenging or rare gastrointestinal diagnoses, unclear test results, and proposed complex treatment plans, including for IBD, liver disease, and pancreatic disorders.
• Management of Functional Dyspepsia & Functional Abdominal Pain Syndrome: Diagnosis and management of chronic upper abdominal pain or discomfort (dyspepsia) or generalized abdominal pain without an identifiable structural cause, often involving lifestyle, dietary, and neuromodulator therapies.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific procedures and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Lam for care relevant to your specific condition.

All medical and surgical services (if applicable) are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant gastroenterological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Lam practices at a modern gastroenterology clinic located in the Uptown neighbourhood of New Westminster, BC, within a short distance of Westminster Pier Park. The facility is easily accessible via public transit, with options including TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus services. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, making it easy for patients to attend appointments without hassle. The practice is committed to providing accessible, patient-centered digestive health care in a welcoming environment.

Are consultations and procedures like endoscopies with Dr. Lam, a Gastroenterologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Gastroenterologist like Dr. Lam, as well as most diagnostic procedures (e.g., endoscopies for investigating symptoms, biopsies for medical reasons) and treatments for provincially insured digestive conditions (e.g., IBD, celiac disease, screening colonoscopies as per provincial guidelines, liver disease management), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Procedures considered purely for screening outside of guidelines, or for non-medical reasons, and some advanced technologies or specific drug therapies might have different coverage. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed treatment or procedure with Dr. Lam's office, the hospital/clinic's financial services, or Medical Services Plan (MSP) beforehand.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Lam, a Gastroenterologist?

Yes, in nearly all cases, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (such as an internist or surgeon) is required to schedule an appointment with a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Lam for services covered by the provincial health plan. Gastroenterological issues often require initial assessment and preliminary investigations by your primary care provider. The referral ensures that a specialist consultation is appropriate, helps with prioritizing appointments, and facilitates coordinated care, including the transfer of relevant medical information.

What is generally involved in preparing for a colonoscopy procedure?

Preparing for a colonoscopy is a critical step to ensure the procedure is effective and safe. Dr. Lam's office will provide very specific instructions, which must be followed closely. Typically, preparation involves dietary changes for a few days beforehand (e.g., low-residue diet), followed by a clear liquid diet for the 24 hours prior to the exam. The most important part is the bowel cleansing process, which involves drinking a prescribed laxative solution designed to completely empty and clean your colon. This usually starts the evening before and may continue the morning of the procedure. You'll also need to arrange for transportation home, as sedation is commonly used.

Are there significant risks associated with procedures like gastroscopy or colonoscopy?

Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) and colonoscopy are generally very safe procedures, especially when performed by an experienced Gastroenterologist like Dr. Lam. Complications are uncommon. Potential risks can include bleeding, particularly if polyps are removed or biopsies are taken; perforation (a tear in the wall of the digestive tract); infection (rare); or adverse reactions to the sedative medication used. Before your procedure, Dr. Lam will thoroughly discuss the specific potential risks and benefits based on your individual health and the reason for the procedure, allowing you to make an informed decision.

410-301 Columbia St E
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W5

Phone: (604) 525-0155 | Fax: (604) 525-1699

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lam is a licensed Gastroenterologist 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 appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Lam for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/334738/Lam%2CMindy