Dr. Sarah Kathryn Fraser – Internist / Geriatrician | Port Alberni, BC

Dr. Sarah Kathryn Fraser is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Port Alberni, BC, she serves the surrounding communities with a patient-centered approach grounded in evidence-based medicine. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality and safe care for all patients.

Dr. Fraser graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2019 and has completed relevant postgraduate training and certifications in internal medicine and geriatrics. She maintains current credentials and engages in continuous professional development to stay abreast of advances in her specialties, emphasizing best practices and up-to-date management strategies.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in an evidence-based and informative approach, focusing on personalized care tailored to each patient's unique health needs. She is committed to serving the adult population of Port Alberni and speaks fluent English, ensuring effective communication and patient understanding. Dr. Fraser is passionate about improving health outcomes and fostering a supportive environment for her patients and their families.

Dr. Fraser provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
• Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Dr. Fraser 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.

• Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
• Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
• Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
• Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
• Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Fraser. 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. Fraser'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. Fraser's practice is conveniently situated near central Port Alberni, within easy reach of local points of interest such as Harbour Quay and Sproat Lake. The area is accessible via local public transit, making it convenient for patients to attend appointments. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that patients with mobility challenges can receive care comfortably. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for patients arriving by car.

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

In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Fraser 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. Fraser. 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.

Can a family member or friend accompany me to the appointment?

Yes, absolutely. Patients are welcome to bring a family member, friend, or caregiver to their appointment for support, to help recall information, or to ask questions. Especially for complex discussions or if memory is a concern, having a second person present can be very beneficial.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring:

• Your provincial health card (Medical Services Plan (MSP) card).
• The referral letter if you have it.
• A complete list of ALL your current medications (prescriptions, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbs), including doses. Bringing the actual bottles/packaging is often very helpful.
• A list of your past medical history, surgeries, and known allergies.
• Any relevant medical reports, lab results, or imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI) reports you possess.
• A list of your specific questions or concerns for Dr. Fraser.

What kind of tests might Dr. Fraser order?

Depending on your specific medical situation, Dr. Fraser 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.

3831 9TH Ave
Port Alberni, BC V9Y 4T8

Phone: (778) 421-8781 | Fax: (877) 782-3819

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Fraser 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/355419/Fraser%2CSarah