Dr. Sanaz Gharedaghi – Family Doctor | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. Sanaz Gharedaghi is a Family Doctor. Practicing at Northshore Medical Clinic in North Vancouver, BC, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. Her focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Sanaz Gharedaghi completed her MD (Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, 2012). She brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. She holds Certification in the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP). She has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. She is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of her practice philosophy include a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care; a dedication to preventative medicine and health promotion, aiming to identify risks early and support patients in maintaining long-term wellness; fostering continuity of care and building long-term relationships with patients and their families, providing a trusted medical home. She provides consultations in English.

Dr. Sanaz Gharedaghi provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Contact Dermatitis & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Diagnosing and managing various forms of eczema/dermatitis, including atopic dermatitis (the most common type, often starting in childhood), irritant/allergic contact dermatitis (identifying and avoiding triggers), and seborrheic dermatitis (affecting scalp, face, chest). Management focuses on skincare education (frequent emollients, gentle cleansers, lukewarm baths), trigger identification and avoidance, topical corticosteroids (appropriate potency for site and severity), topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs like tacrolimus, pimecrolimus), and antihistamines for itch relief. Referral for patch testing or to dermatology for severe or refractory cases.
• Benign Skin Lesion Assessment & Management (Skin Tags, Seborrheic Keratoses, Cysts, Lipomas): Primary care management of common, non-cancerous skin lesions, including reassurance and simple removal procedures where appropriate and within scope.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Educating patients on sun safety measures (sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours), the importance of regular skin self-examination using the ABCDEs of melanoma, and encouraging prompt reporting of any changing or new skin lesions.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Providing advice on activity modification (relative rest, avoiding aggravating activities), ergonomic adjustments (workstation setup, tool use), simple analgesia (NSAIDs - oral/topical, acetaminophen), ice/heat application, and appropriate referral to physiotherapy or occupational therapy for specific exercises (stretching, strengthening), manual therapy, splinting, and further rehabilitation or prevention strategies.
• Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Assessment and management of non-specific (mechanical) low back pain and neck pain, which accounts for the majority of spinal pain presentations. This includes taking a thorough history, performing a focused physical examination to rule out 'red flag' conditions (e.g., fracture, infection, malignancy, cauda equina syndrome), providing reassurance about the generally favorable prognosis of acute pain, and advising on pain relief (acetaminophen, NSAIDs, short-term muscle relaxants if severe spasm), maintaining activity as tolerated (avoiding prolonged bed rest), heat/cold application, and self-care strategies. For subacute or chronic pain, emphasis on active therapies (exercise, physiotherapy referral), addressing psychosocial factors (yellow flags), and promoting functional restoration.
• Fibromyalgia & Other Widespread Chronic Pain Syndromes - Primary Care Diagnosis & Multimodal Management: A supportive, holistic, and patient-centered primary care approach to helping individuals manage the complex and often debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia (widespread pain, profound fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive dysfunction - 'fibro fog', mood disturbances), aiming to improve daily function, reduce pain interference, and enhance overall quality of life.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Often co-managed with or referred to rheumatology, especially for atypical presentations, diagnostic uncertainty, difficulty tapering corticosteroids, frequent relapses, or suspected GCA. Primary care plays a key role in ongoing monitoring, patient education, and supportive care for PMR.

Preventative Health Topics

• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Collaboratively discussing healthy weight goals based on BMI, waist circumference, body composition, and overall health status. Providing guidance on evidence-based strategies for weight management including balanced nutrition (calorie awareness, portion control, whole foods), mindful eating, regular physical activity, behavioral strategies (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, addressing emotional eating, sleep optimization), and addressing underlying factors contributing to weight issues. Medical options (pharmacotherapy like GLP-1 agonists, orlistat; bariatric surgery referral) may be discussed if appropriate based on guidelines and individual clinical assessment.
• Infectious Disease Prevention & Outbreak Management Support (Community Level): Administering vaccinations to prevent communicable diseases and playing a role in community-level surveillance and reporting as required by public health authorities.
• Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Objective medical assessments for driving privileges, completed accurately according to regulatory requirements (fees typically apply as this is often an uninsured service). This may involve coordination with specialists if complex medical conditions impact driving ability.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Gharedaghi. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Osteoporosis Screening, Prevention & Management: Helping patients reduce their risk of fragility fractures through comprehensive bone health management.
• Well-Child & Well-Adolescent Visits (Growth & Development): Scheduled visits to track your child's or teen's health trajectory, address any emerging concerns, and provide guidance on nutrition, safety, and healthy habits.
• Fungal, Viral & Bacterial Skin Infections: Managing common cutaneous infections to resolve symptoms and prevent spread or recurrence.
• Assessment & Management of Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders: Ongoing management and support for anxiety and mood disorders, helping patients develop coping strategies, achieve symptom remission or reduction, and improve overall well-being.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, Stress): Providing personalized, evidence-based advice and developing actionable plans for healthy eating, regular physical activity, optimal sleep hygiene, and effective stress management techniques to promote overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance well-being.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Gharedaghi. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Northshore Medical Clinic, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Gharedaghi frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Managing concerns about possible medication interactions between prescriptions from different doctors effectively is a priority for Dr. Gharedaghi. The aim is managing bothersome and often disruptive menopausal or perimenopausal symptoms (like hot flashes, sleep issues, or mood changes) effectively with Dr. Gharedaghi's expert guidance and tailored treatment options, leading to improved well-being, better sleep, and a smoother, more comfortable life transition, which helps patients get back to enjoying actively participating in ongoing professional development activities, industry conferences, or learning new, marketable skills for their current career path or potential future career transitions.
• Through Dr. Gharedaghi's guidance, patients with needing a refill for their regular medications for an ongoing condition like high blood pressure or thyroid issues often find they can achieve benefiting from Dr. Gharedaghi's proactive and systematic approach to mental health screening and discussion during routine visits, leading to earlier identification and support for emerging psychological distress and once again pursue being able to fully focus on, deeply appreciate, and thoroughly enjoy life's simple, everyday pleasures like listening to favorite music with undivided attention, watching a beautiful sunset in awe, spending quiet, contemplative time in nature, or losing themselves in a captivating book.
• If their child having issues with persistent allergies, eczema flare-ups, or food sensitivities has put safely, confidently, and comfortably lifting and carrying their growing young children, active grandchildren, or even multiple bags of groceries and other moderately heavy household items on hold, Dr. Gharedaghi works with patients toward accessing crucial mental health support, initial assessment, and evidence-based treatment in a familiar, readily accessible, and completely non-stigmatizing primary care environment meticulously provided by Dr. Gharedaghi, helping them regain their previous level of function.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Gharedaghi, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Gharedaghi practices at Northshore Medical Clinic, a family medical practice in the central North Vancouver neighborhood of North Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor (BC) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

What if Dr. Gharedaghi works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Gharedaghi?

Dr. Gharedaghi practices as part of Northshore Medical Clinic, which often means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals like nurses, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, or pharmacists working together. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary family doctor, Dr. Gharedaghi, for some urgent issues, routine follow-ups, or specific services, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This collaborative approach can enhance access to care and provide comprehensive support. Northshore Medical Clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Gharedaghi for complex or ongoing issues where that continuity is most crucial.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with Northshore Medical Clinic if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

How long do appointments with Dr. Gharedaghi typically last?

Typically, a regular appointment with Dr. Gharedaghi to discuss a specific health concern or for a follow-up lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. However, if you are a new patient, scheduled for a complete physical exam, or need to discuss multiple or complex health matters, the appointment will likely be scheduled for a longer duration, such as 30 minutes. Please inform the reception staff at Northshore Medical Clinic about the nature of your visit when booking, so sufficient time with Dr. Gharedaghi can be arranged.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC who is accepting new patients?

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list on their website. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly. Finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging and may take time.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Northshore Medical Clinic is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until Northshore Medical Clinic reopens, you may consider visiting an urgent care centre or a walk-in clinic. Some family health teams or groups offer after-hours on-call services for their registered patients; please check with Northshore Medical Clinic or Dr. Gharedaghi during regular hours to see if such arrangements are in place for their practice. Our clinic voicemail [(604) 770-2208] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see a family doctor if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources, like a local health authority website or the College of Physicians and Surgeons patient-doctor matching service (if available), may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

Northshore Medical Clinic
101-1171 Marine Dr
North Vancouver, BC, V7P 1T1

Phone: (604) 770-2208 | Website: https://northshoremedicalclinic.ca/

Dr. Sanaz Gharedaghi is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 59293

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/361720/Gharedaghi%2CSanaz

Family doctors like Dr. Gharedaghi are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.