Dr. Miriam Shanks – Cardiologist | New Westminster, BC

With expertise in Cardiology, Dr. Miriam Shanks provides comprehensive consultations and follow-up care for heart-related conditions. Practicing in New Westminster, BC, she serves patients from the surrounding region and adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her practice is committed to evidence-based, patient-centred care, focusing on accurate diagnosis, effective management, and ongoing monitoring of cardiovascular health. Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include specialty practice - cardiology, ensuring tailored approaches to individual patient needs.

Dr. Shanks graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of P.J. Safarik in Slovakia in 1996. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology, including residency and fellowship programs, and has earned certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training emphasizes rigorous clinical standards and continuous professional development, ensuring her practice remains aligned with current best practices and emerging evidence in cardiovascular medicine.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in an evidence-based and informative approach, prioritizing clear communication, patient education, and collaborative decision-making. She is dedicated to providing high-quality care to adults in New Westminster and speaks English, Czech, and Slovak, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations. Dr. Shanks is committed to enhancing cardiovascular health outcomes within her community.

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

Valvular Heart Disease

• Infective Endocarditis Follow-Up: Managing cardiac health after treatment for infection of the heart valves or lining.
• Post-Valve Surgery / Intervention Follow-Up: Ongoing care and monitoring for patients after surgical or transcatheter heart valve repair or replacement.
• Tricuspid & Pulmonary Valve Conditions: Evaluation and management of less common conditions affecting the right-sided heart valves.

Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy

• Pulmonary Hypertension Evaluation: Assessing for high blood pressure in the lung arteries, often related to underlying heart or lung conditions.
• 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.

Other Cardiovascular Conditions

• Aortic Diseases (e.g., Aneurysm Monitoring): Medical management and monitoring of conditions affecting the aorta, such as aneurysms (in collaboration with vascular specialists).
• Cardio-Oncology Issues: Monitoring and managing potential heart complications related to cancer treatments.
• Pericardial Diseases (e.g., Pericarditis): Diagnosis and management of inflammation or fluid accumulation affecting the sac surrounding the heart.

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Shanks is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.

• Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Lipid Management (Cholesterol Treatment): Specialized management of high cholesterol and other lipid disorders using lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment & Modification: Comprehensive evaluation of individual risk factors (smoking, diet, exercise, family history, etc.) and developing personalized prevention strategies.
• Echocardiogram (Transthoracic - TTE) Interpretation: Analyzing standard ultrasound images of the heart to evaluate heart muscle function, valve structure and function, and chamber sizes.
• 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. Shanks. 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. Shanks primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Uptown and Massey Victory Heights neighborhoods of New Westminster, near the historic Downtown area. The clinics are easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Shanks covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Shanks 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. Shanks?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shanks. 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.

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. Shanks. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.

Does Dr. Miriam Shanks provide refills for my heart medications?

Dr. Shanks will typically initiate or adjust specialized heart medications. However, for stable, ongoing prescriptions, refills should generally be obtained through your family doctor, who manages your overall medication list. Please ensure you have enough medication until your next family doctor visit unless instructed otherwise.

Does Dr. Miriam Shanks replace my family doctor for general care?

No, Dr. Shanks focuses specifically on your cardiovascular health as a specialist consultant. Your family doctor remains central to your overall healthcare, managing other health issues and coordinating routine care. Dr. Shanks collaborates closely with your family doctor, providing reports and recommendations.

What is Holter monitoring?

A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records your heart's electrical activity (ECG) continuously, typically for 24 to 48 hours, while you go about your normal daily activities. It's used to detect heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) that may not occur during a standard brief ECG in the office.

102a 245 East Columbia Street, Keary Centre
New Westminster, BC V3L 3W4

Phone: (604) 522-8899 | Fax: (604) 522-4215

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Shanks 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/325281/Shanks%2CMiriam