About
Dr. Minju Park is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Kelowna in Kelowna, BC, she is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. She adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. Her role as a Nephrologist focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
Dr. Park graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2015. 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 4 years of specialized experience since 2020. She holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice and ongoing professional development.
Her professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. Dr. Park is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. She utilizes evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Her approach 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 provide holistic care. All patient communication and care are conducted in English, with a focus on compassionate, patient-centered service in Kelowna.
Dr. Minju Park provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Park addresses can be primary (originating in the kidneys) or secondary to systemic diseases like lupus or vasculitis.
- Lupus Nephritis: Regular screening for kidney involvement is crucial for lupus patients.
- IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Clinical course varies; some progress to kidney failure. Treatment may include blood pressure control and immunosuppression.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Common causes include Post-infectious Glomerulonephritis, IgA Nephropathy, and Lupus Nephritis.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Park addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.
- Pre-renal AKI: Treatment focuses on restoring kidney perfusion by addressing the underlying cause (e.g., fluid resuscitation).
- Post-renal AKI: Caused by an obstruction in the urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones, enlarged prostate, tumors) that prevents urine from draining.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Risk factors include pre-existing CKD, diabetes, and dehydration.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Park addresses management focuses on slowing progression, treating underlying causes like diabetes and hypertension, and managing complications.
- Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Disorders of calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, and vitamin D metabolism leading to bone disease and vascular calcification.
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A leading cause of CKD and end-stage renal disease.
- Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Intensive management of complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolyte imbalance) and preparation for renal replacement therapy.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Minju Park is necessary.
- Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Regular monitoring of dialysis adequacy, nutritional status, and management of related complications.
- Comprehensive Nephrology Consultation: Thorough assessment of kidney function, diagnosis of kidney diseases, and development of personalized management plans.
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Addressing common complications of dialysis such as anemia, mineral and bone disorders, cardiovascular issues, and infections.
- Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Coordination with vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists for access creation and maintenance.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Focus on blood sugar control, blood pressure management, and use of kidney-protective medications.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Park.
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. Park practices at a specialized nephrology clinic located in the heart of Kelowna's Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently situated near Orchard Park Shopping Centre, providing easy access for patients from across the city. It is accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring convenient transportation options. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with ample parking available nearby, including some accessible spots. This professional environment fosters comprehensive kidney care, offering patients a welcoming space for their evaluation, treatment, and ongoing management.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Park might discuss?
- If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Park 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. Park will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Park and a Urologist?
- The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Park, 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. Park?
- You should see a Nephrologist like Dr. Park if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease, have significant risk factors (like diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension with signs of kidney impact), or experience symptoms such as persistent swelling, changes in urination, blood or protein in urine, or unexplained fatigue that your family doctor suspects is kidney-related. A referral from your primary care physician or another specialist is typically required.
- What does a Nephrologist like Dr. Park specialize in?
- A Nephrologist, such as Dr. Park, is an 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, electrolyte imbalances, and providing care for patients requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. She focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases to improve patient outcomes.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Park?
- Dr. Park treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis, Polycystic Kidney Disease, electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Her expertise encompasses the diagnosis, treatment, and management of these conditions.
- Are services from Dr. Park covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Park, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). Confirm coverage specifics with her office or MSP, as some tests or therapies may have particular requirements or limitations.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Park?
- Dr. Park plays a key role in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. She assesses if a transplant is suitable, manages kidney disease before the procedure, and provides ongoing post-transplant care. This involves medication management, monitoring for rejection, and supporting long-term health of the transplanted kidney to ensure optimal outcomes.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Kelowna
2268 Pandosy St, Renal Services, Kelowna General Hospital
Kelowna, BC V1Y 1T2
Office Phone: (250) 862-4156 | Office Fax: (250) 862-4245
Dr. Park 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. Park, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Park's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/339210/Park%2CMinju