Dr. Rebecca Kathryn Mary Schnurr-Howsam – Internist / Geriatrician | Richmond, BC

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Rebecca Kathryn Mary Schnurr-Howsam serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Richmond, BC, she is dedicated to serving the surrounding communities with compassionate and comprehensive care. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring quality and safety in every aspect of her clinical work. Dr. Schnurr-Howsam’s focus is on providing personalized healthcare that respects the unique needs of each patient, especially older adults and seniors.

Dr. Schnurr-Howsam graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2015. She has completed rigorous postgraduate training in internal medicine and geriatric medicine, earning key certifications that enhance her expertise in managing complex adult health issues. Her educational background and ongoing professional development enable her to deliver evidence-based, patient-centered care tailored to the diverse needs of her patients.

Her clinical philosophy is warm and community-focused. Dr. Schnurr-Howsam is committed to fostering trusting doctor-patient relationships and actively engaging with her patients to promote health and well-being. Fluent in English, she prioritizes clear communication and respectful care, aiming to improve quality of life for her patients in Richmond and beyond.

Dr. Schnurr-Howsam 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.
• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
• Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.

Dr. Schnurr-Howsam 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.
• Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
• Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
• Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Schnurr-Howsam. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Schnurr-Howsam'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. Schnurr-Howsam’s practice is located in the vibrant Central Richmond (City Centre North) neighborhood, conveniently near Minoru Park. The location offers easy access via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Canada Line and bus routes, making it accessible for patients from across the region. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for patients and visitors.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Schnurr-Howsam? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Schnurr-Howsam 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. Schnurr-Howsam. 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 kind of tests might Dr. Rebecca Kathryn Mary Schnurr-Howsam order?

Depending on your specific medical situation, Dr. Schnurr-Howsam may order various tests to aid in diagnosis or management. These could include blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies (like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans), electrocardiograms (ECGs), or referrals for other specialized tests (like pulmonary function tests or bone density scans). She will explain why any tests are being recommended.

How does a Geriatrician's role differ?

A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss (Frailty Assessment & Management), and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Schnurr-Howsam, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. She often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.

7671 Alderbridge Way, 3rd Floor, Richmond Community Geriatric Services
Richmond, BC V6X 1Z9

Phone: (604) 675-3649 | Fax: (604) 297-9695

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Schnurr-Howsam 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/339194/Schnurr-Howsam%2CRebecca