Dr. Patrick Leland Oviatt is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Lethbridge, AB, he serves the surrounding communities, adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). His role involves managing a wide spectrum of medical issues, emphasizing personalized patient care and evidence-based practices.
Dr. Oviatt graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Alberta in 2004. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in internal medicine and specialized geriatric care, ensuring a broad and in-depth clinical expertise. His certifications reflect his commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to provincial medical standards.
His clinical philosophy is rooted in clear and educational communication, emphasizing patient understanding and shared decision-making. Dr. Oviatt is committed to serving the Lethbridge community with compassion and professionalism. He is fluent in English and Japanese, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population. His approach centers on holistic, patient-centered care to improve health outcomes and quality of life for his patients.
Dr. Oviatt provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
- 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.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
- Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
- Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
Dr. Oviatt 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.
- Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
- Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
- 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.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Oviatt. 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. Oviatt'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).
Located in Downtown Lethbridge within the South Lethbridge East neighbourhood, Dr. Oviatt's practice is conveniently close to the University of Lethbridge and the ATB Centre (Recreation). Patients can access the clinic easily via Lethbridge Transit, with nearby metered street parking and paid parking options available. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Oviatt? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?
- In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Oviatt 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. Oviatt. 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. Oviatt will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. He will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, he will discuss Dr. Oviatt's findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.
- Is Dr. Oviatt affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Oviatt may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at specific local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Oviatt as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.
- What is the appointment cancellation policy?
- We understand that unforeseen circumstances arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24-48 hours' notice so we can offer the time slot to another patient waiting for consultation. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in a missed appointment fee (if applicable per clinic policy). Please contact the office directly to make changes.
1244 3 Ave S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 0J9
Phone: (403) 320-0633 | Fax: (403) 320-0353
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Oviatt 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=733129ea-c0b8-4a2c-b64f-e7de3d868e2a&i=1113