About
Dr. Niels Erik Schwarz is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Nanaimo, BC, he serves the surrounding communities with a patient-centered approach grounded in evidence-based medicine. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality and safe care for all patients.
Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include Specialty practice - internal medicine. Dr. Schwarz’s clinical expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of adult health issues, particularly those affecting older adults and seniors. He aims to address the unique medical, functional, and social needs of his patients, promoting optimal health and quality of life across the aging spectrum.
Dr. Schwarz graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 1992 and has completed extensive postgraduate training and certifications relevant to internal medicine and geriatric care. His professional development includes certifications in comprehensive geriatric assessment, osteoporosis management, and chronic disease optimization, reflecting his commitment to ongoing education and clinical excellence.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes an evidence-based and informative approach, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and scientifically supported care. He is dedicated to serving the Nanaimo community, communicating fluently in English, Dutch, and French, to better serve diverse patient populations and foster clear understanding and trust.
Dr. Schwarz 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.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
- Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
Dr. Schwarz 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.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA): A holistic, multidimensional evaluation tailored to older adults, assessing medical conditions, functional ability, cognition, mood, nutrition, social support, and medication use.
- 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.
- Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Schwarz. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, he provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Schwarz'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 British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Schwarz's practice is located in central Nanaimo, in the Departure Bay neighborhood, near the Brooks Landing Shopping Centre. The location is easily accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Schwarz? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Schwarz are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Medical Services Plan (MSP)) 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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. Schwarz. 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 should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?
- Dr. Schwarz's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.
204 - 1515 Dufferin Cres
Nanaimo, BC V9S 5H6
Phone: (778) 841-0125 | Fax: (250) 729-2674
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Schwarz 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/312636/Schwarz%2CNiels