About
Dr. Richard William Kazimierz Sztramko, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in West Vancouver, BC, he serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to high standards of medical practice. His role involves providing comprehensive assessment and management for adult patients, including older adults and seniors, adhering strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include specialty practice in geriatric medicine and internal medicine.
Dr. Sztramko graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Toronto in 2007. He has completed relevant postgraduate training and holds key certifications in internal medicine and geriatric care, ensuring his practice incorporates the latest evidence-based guidelines and clinical standards. His training emphasizes a thorough understanding of complex adult and geriatric health issues, enabling him to deliver expert, personalized care.
His clinical philosophy is grounded in an evidence-based and informative approach, emphasizing patient-centered care and shared decision-making. He is dedicated to serving the West Vancouver community with a focus on quality, safety, and effective health management. Dr. Sztramko speaks English fluently and is committed to communicating clearly and compassionately with his patients.
Dr. Sztramko provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
- Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
Dr. Sztramko 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.
- Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
- Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.
- Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment: In-depth evaluation for adults with complex, unclear, or multi-system medical conditions, involving detailed history, physical examination, and coordination of necessary investigations.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Sztramko. 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. Sztramko'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. Sztramko practices in the Caulfeild area within the Eagle Harbour neighborhood of West Vancouver. His clinic is conveniently accessible for residents in the region, with proximity to Cypress Mountain Ski Area providing easy access for outdoor enthusiasts. The facility is accessible via TransLink's BlueBus service operated by West Vancouver, ensuring reliable public transit options. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility, offering convenient access for patients arriving by car.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Sztramko? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Sztramko 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. Sztramko. 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.
- How long should I expect my appointment to last?
- Initial consultations with Dr. Sztramko are comprehensive and typically require more time, often ranging from 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical history and concerns. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter. We recommend allowing ample time for your visit, including check-in and potential waiting periods.
- 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 (Perioperative Medical Optimization), and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Sztramko, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. He often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.
241-2121 Marine Dr, Geriatrics
West Vancouver, BC V7V 4Y2
Phone: (778) 991-7801 | Fax: (694) 904-6172
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Sztramko 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/332249/Sztramko%2CRichard