Dr. Sarah Hayley Riedlinger – Endocrinologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Sarah Hayley Riedlinger, a Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus), provides expert care for adult patients, and may also see older adolescents for certain endocrine conditions. Practicing at an endocrinology clinic within a hospital department in Kelowna, BC, she is a key member of the local medical community. She adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Her practice primarily centers on the comprehensive management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and lipid disorders, aiming to optimize hormonal and metabolic health through advanced diagnostic approaches and individualized treatment strategies.

Dr. Riedlinger graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Alberta in Canada. She holds specialty certification as an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her expertise and commitment to excellence in hormone and metabolism care. She maintains up-to-date certifications and adheres to the latest clinical guidelines to ensure high-quality patient outcomes.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in a commitment to evidence-based hormonal and metabolic care, emphasizing patient education on managing chronic conditions, early and accurate diagnosis, and creating personalized treatment plans focused on long-term well-being. Dr. Riedlinger is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive endocrine care to her patients in Kelowna, primarily communicating in English. Her goal is to support each individual in achieving optimal hormonal health and improving quality of life.

Dr. Sarah Riedlinger diagnoses and treats a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders, including:

Diabetes & Related Metabolic Disorders

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar - various causes): Abnormally low blood glucose levels, which can occur as a side effect of diabetes treatment (insulin or certain oral medications), or due to other underlying conditions like insulinoma or adrenal insufficiency.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM): A progressive condition characterized by insulin resistance (where the body's cells don't respond effectively to insulin) and/or relative insulin deficiency, often linked to genetics, lifestyle factors, and obesity.
• Diabetes Complications (Neuropathy, Nephropathy, Retinopathy - endocrine management aspects): Management focused on glycemic, blood pressure, and lipid control to prevent or slow the progression of nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye damage associated with diabetes.

Pituitary, Adrenal & Gonadal Axis Disorders

• Primary Aldosteronism (Conn's Syndrome): A condition where the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure and low potassium levels.
• Diabetes Insipidus (Central or Nephrogenic): A rare disorder characterized by intense thirst and the excretion of large amounts of dilute urine, caused by problems with the hormone vasopressin (ADH) or the kidneys' response to it.
• Male Hypogonadism (Primary & Secondary Testosterone Deficiency): Condition in which the body doesn't produce enough testosterone, leading to symptoms like low libido, fatigue, muscle loss, and infertility. Can be due to testicular failure or pituitary/hypothalamic issues.

Bone Health & Mineral Metabolism Disorders

• Osteopenia (Low Bone Mass): A condition where bone mineral density is lower than normal peak density but not yet low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It indicates an increased risk for developing osteoporosis.
• Vitamin D Deficiency and Insufficiency: Inadequate levels of vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization, leading to potential bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased fracture risk.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific endocrine condition, please consult with Dr. Sarah Riedlinger.

• Inpatient & Outpatient Management of Endocrine Emergencies & Crises: Acute diagnosis and management of potentially life-threatening hormonal imbalances such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS), thyroid storm, myxedema coma, adrenal crisis, severe hypoglycemia, and acute hyper/hypocalcemia, typically initiated in an emergency or hospital setting with ongoing outpatient follow-up.
• Interpretation of Complex Hormonal Assays, Dynamic Endocrine Function Tests & Genetic Markers: Expert analysis and clinical correlation of specialized blood, urine, and saliva tests measuring various hormone levels. Includes interpretation of dynamic stimulation and suppression tests (e.g., ACTH stimulation, dexamethasone suppression, oral glucose tolerance test for acromegaly) to precisely evaluate endocrine gland function and identify genetic predispositions.
• Expert Second Opinion Consultations for Complex or Rare Endocrine Disorders: Providing specialized second opinions on challenging endocrine diagnoses, interpretation of ambiguous hormone test results, or evaluation of complex or multi-faceted treatment plans.
• Genetic Counseling Coordination & Testing for Hereditary Endocrine Neoplasia Syndromes & Familial Disorders: Risk assessment and coordination of genetic testing and counseling for individuals and families with suspected hereditary endocrine tumor syndromes (e.g., Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia - MEN1, MEN2; Von Hippel-Lindau), familial thyroid cancer, or other inherited endocrine conditions.
• Comprehensive Endocrine System Consultation & Hormonal Health Evaluation: In-depth clinical assessment of potential hormonal imbalances and disorders affecting the endocrine glands (e.g., thyroid, pituitary, adrenal, pancreas, parathyroid, gonads). Includes detailed medical history, family history review, targeted physical examination, analysis of symptoms, and formulation of a personalized diagnostic and management plan.
• Transitional Care for Young Adults with Chronic Endocrine Conditions: Facilitating the smooth transition of adolescents and young adults with lifelong endocrine disorders (e.g., Type 1 diabetes, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hypopituitarism) from pediatric to adult endocrine care services.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific tests and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Riedlinger for care relevant to your specific condition.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant endocrinological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Riedlinger's practice is located within an endocrinology clinic at a hospital department situated in the vibrant Central Kelowna neighborhood, encompassing South Pandosy and Downtown areas. The facility is conveniently accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), making it easy for patients to reach by public transit. The location is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing easy and secure parking for those visiting the clinic for appointments. Kelowna General Hospital, a short distance away, offers comprehensive health services and emergency care if needed.

Are consultations, hormone tests, and treatments with Dr. Riedlinger, an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus), covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) like Dr. Riedlinger, most standard diagnostic hormone blood tests, dynamic endocrine function tests when indicated, and treatments for provincially insured endocrine conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, osteoporosis management as per guidelines) are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Some newer or specialized medications (e.g., certain advanced diabetes drugs, some growth hormone therapies, specific osteoporosis agents), medical devices (like some insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors and their supplies), or treatments considered primarily for lifestyle or cosmetic reasons may have different coverage criteria or require special authorization. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed investigation or treatment with Dr. Riedlinger's office, the hospital/clinic, or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly.

Is a referral required to see Dr. Riedlinger, an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus)?

Yes, for services covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an internist, pediatrician, or gynecologist) is almost always required to schedule an appointment with an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) such as Dr. Riedlinger. Endocrine system disorders often involve complex interactions and can have wide-ranging effects, so an initial assessment by your primary care provider helps determine if specialist care is needed and ensures that relevant preliminary tests and medical history are available to the endocrinologist. This facilitates a more focused and efficient consultation.

What treatment options for osteoporosis might Dr. Riedlinger discuss?

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, Dr. Riedlinger will discuss a management plan aimed at reducing your risk of fractures. This starts with lifestyle modifications, including ensuring adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D (through diet and/or supplements), engaging in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol intake. Fall prevention strategies are also important. If medication is indicated based on your bone density (DXA scan) and fracture risk assessment (e.g., using FRAX or CAROC tools), options include antiresorptive medications that slow bone loss (like bisphosphonates or denosumab) or anabolic agents that stimulate new bone formation (like teriparatide or romosozumab). She will help choose the most appropriate therapy based on your individual circumstances, potential side effects, and treatment goals.

What types of diagnostic tests are commonly used by an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) like Dr. Riedlinger?

An Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) like Dr. Riedlinger utilizes a variety of tests to diagnose endocrine disorders. Blood tests are fundamental for measuring levels of specific hormones (e.g., TSH, free T4, cortisol, ACTH, testosterone, estrogen, LH, FSH, insulin, HbA1c, prolactin, PTH, calcium, vitamin D). She often orders dynamic endocrine function tests, where hormone levels are measured after administering a stimulating or suppressing agent (e.g., ACTH stimulation test for adrenal function, oral glucose tolerance test for diabetes/acromegaly, dexamethasone suppression test for Cushing's). Imaging studies like thyroid ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs of the pituitary or adrenal glands are common. Bone mineral density (DXA) scans assess for osteoporosis. For thyroid nodules, a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy might be performed or arranged.

What symptoms might lead my doctor to refer me to an Endocrinologist like Dr. {provider_name_doctor_last}?

Your doctor might refer you to an Endocrinologist like Dr. Riedlinger if you have symptoms or test results suggestive of a hormone imbalance or endocrine gland problem. This could include: unexplained significant weight gain or loss; persistent fatigue or lethargy; changes in mood or energy levels; excessive thirst or urination; new or worsening high blood sugar; symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid (e.g., palpitations, heat/cold intolerance, changes in hair/skin); bone density loss (osteoporosis); recurrent kidney stones; menstrual irregularities or fertility issues; unexplained high blood pressure; or physical changes like excessive hair growth, acromegaly features, or signs of Cushing's syndrome.

206-3030 Pandosy St
Kelowna, BC V1Y 0C4

Phone: (250) 860-8899 | Fax: (250) 860-8868

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Riedlinger is a licensed Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Riedlinger for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/355019/Riedlinger%2CSarah