About
Dr. Rachid Mohamed 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 Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary, AB, he is a key member of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. Dr. Mohamed provides comprehensive care for a wide range of digestive system disorders, including conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas, utilizing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy to deliver precise and effective treatment.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Gastroenterologist. His credentials include certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC - Fellow, LMCC, and Certificate of Special Competence in Gastroenterology), reflecting his expertise and commitment to excellence in digestive health care.
Dr. Mohamed’s clinical philosophy centers on evidence-based practice, patient education, and early, accurate diagnosis through advanced procedures. He is committed to providing personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs, emphasizing open communication, lifestyle modifications, and the latest therapeutic options. Fluent in English, he strives to offer compassionate and accessible care to his patients in Calgary, fostering a supportive environment for all those seeking help with digestive health concerns.
Dr. Rachid Mohamed diagnoses and treats a wide range of digestive system disorders, including:
Esophageal, Stomach & Upper GI Disorders
- Barrett's Esophagus & Dysplasia Monitoring: A precancerous condition in which the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced with tissue similar to the intestinal lining, often due to chronic GERD, requiring regular surveillance for dysplasia (abnormal cells).
- Hiatal Hernia & Paraesophageal Hernia: Condition where part of the stomach pushes upward through an opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm into the chest, potentially contributing to GERD and other symptoms.
Small & Large Intestine (Colorectal) Disorders
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding (Obscure & Overt): Bleeding anywhere along the digestive tract, which can be visible (overt) or hidden (occult/obscure), requiring investigation to identify and treat the source.
- Diverticular Disease (Diverticulosis, Diverticulitis, Diverticular Bleeding): Diverticulosis is the presence of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall. Diverticulitis is inflammation or infection of these pouches. Diverticular bleeding can also occur.
Functional Gastrointestinal & Motility Disorders
- Gastroparesis (Delayed Gastric Emptying): A condition that affects the normal spontaneous movement of the muscles (motility) in your stomach, preventing proper and timely emptying of stomach contents, leading to nausea, vomiting, and fullness.
- 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.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific digestive condition, please consult with Dr. Rachid Mohamed.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Comprehensive Diagnosis & Management (including subtypes IBS-D, IBS-C, IBS-M): Multifaceted approach to managing IBS symptoms (abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, mixed pattern) including thorough exclusion of other conditions, dietary modifications (e.g., low FODMAP diet), lifestyle changes, stress management, and targeted medications.
- 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.
- Colonoscopy (Screening, Diagnostic, Surveillance) & Polypectomy: Comprehensive examination of the entire colon (large intestine) using a colonoscope to detect and remove precancerous polyps, screen for and diagnose colorectal cancer, evaluate symptoms, and diagnose other colonic conditions like colitis or diverticular disease.
- Screening & Prevention Strategies for Gastrointestinal Cancers: Risk assessment and counseling on screening for colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer (in Barrett's esophagus), gastric cancer, and liver cancer (in cirrhosis), including FIT testing and colonoscopy recommendations.
- 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.
- Upper Endoscopy (EGD - Esophagogastroduodenoscopy) with Biopsy & Interventions: Diagnostic and therapeutic procedure to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible tube with a camera. Allows for targeted biopsies, polyp removal (polypectomy), dilation of strictures, control of bleeding (hemostasis), and foreign body removal.
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Testing & Eradication Therapy: Diagnosis of H. pylori infection using breath tests, stool tests, or endoscopic biopsies, and providing appropriate antibiotic regimens for eradication to treat ulcers and gastritis.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific procedures and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Mohamed 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant gastroenterological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Foothills Medical Centre is situated in Calgary's NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighbourhood, serving as a hub for advanced healthcare services. The centre connects easily to major city routes, including connections to East/West South and Heritage Park Historical Village, making it accessible for patients from various parts of Calgary. Public transit options are abundant, with Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT) providing convenient access. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at or near the facility, ensuring ease of access for patients and visitors seeking expert digestive health care.
- Are consultations and procedures like endoscopies with Dr. Mohamed, a Gastroenterologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Gastroenterologist like Dr. Mohamed, 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Mohamed's office, the hospital/clinic's financial services, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) beforehand.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Mohamed, 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. Mohamed 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 are common reasons someone would be referred to a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Rachid Mohamed?
- Referral to a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Mohamed is common for various reasons, including: persistent heartburn or acid reflux (GERD); difficulty or pain when swallowing; unexplained abdominal pain or bloating; chronic nausea or vomiting; significant changes in bowel habits (e.g., chronic diarrhea, severe constipation); blood in the stool or rectal bleeding; iron deficiency anemia with no obvious cause; suspected or diagnosed Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis); Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) not responding to initial management; celiac disease; abnormal liver function tests or suspected liver disease (like hepatitis or fatty liver); pancreatitis; or for screening and surveillance colonoscopies to prevent colorectal cancer, especially if there's a family history or personal history of polyps.
- 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. Mohamed. 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. Mohamed 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.
Foothills Medical Centre
245-1620 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 4L7
Phone: (403) 457-6133 | Fax: (855) 949-3761
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Mohamed is a licensed Gastroenterologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Mohamed for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=26497bc4-bd51-4104-9685-5f1094b395bf&i=998