Dr. Scott Edward Wenderfer – Nephrologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Scott Edward Wenderfer is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Vancouver, BC, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive kidney care within the community. His practice adheres rigorously to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). As a Nephrologist, he specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming environment for patients, providing a full spectrum of care from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.

Dr. Wenderfer graduated with an MD from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in 2001. Following his medical school training, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. He has been practicing as a Nephrologist for over 18 years, since 2006, gaining extensive experience in the field. He holds all necessary certifications to practice nephrology in BC, including certification from the Canadian Society of Nephrology and ongoing continuing medical education to stay current with advancements in kidney care.

His professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. Dr. Wenderfer is dedicated to educating his patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. He utilizes evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies to achieve optimal outcomes. With a focus on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications, he works collaboratively with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic patient care. All communication and care are delivered in English, emphasizing clarity and compassion in every interaction.

Dr. Scott Wenderfer provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Wenderfer addresses nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex cases.

• Resistant Hypertension: Often requires specialized nephrology input.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Treatment targets the underlying cause and correction of the pH imbalance.
• Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Common in hospitalized patients and those with kidney, heart, or liver disease.

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Wenderfer addresses diagnosis often requires a kidney biopsy, and treatment may involve immunosuppressive medications.

• IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Often presents with visible blood in urine during or after an infection.
• Nephritic Syndrome: Indicates inflammation of the glomeruli.
• Nephrotic Syndrome: Characterized by heavy proteinuria (protein in urine), low blood albumin, edema (swelling), and high cholesterol.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Wenderfer addresses management focuses on slowing progression, treating underlying causes like diabetes and hypertension, and managing complications.

• Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Regular monitoring to track kidney function and progression.
• Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Can cause fatigue, weakness, and reduced quality of life.
• Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Kidney damage caused by long-term, poorly controlled high blood pressure, leading to scarring of kidney tissue.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Scott Wenderfer is necessary.

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: In-hospital and outpatient follow-up for AKI.
• Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Comprehensive management for patients undergoing in-centre hemodialysis.
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Management of dialysis access complications like infections or thrombosis.
• Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Preventing fractures and cardiovascular complications related to bone disease.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly resistant or secondary hypertension linked to kidney problems.
• Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Diagnosis and treatment of complex imbalances in sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and acid-base status.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Wenderfer.

All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Wenderfer practices at a specialized nephrology clinic located in Vancouver's Shaughnessy and Arbutus Ridge South neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently situated near Rogers Arena, making it easily accessible by public transportation, including TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available. Patients can expect a professional, welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care tailored to their individual needs.

Are services from Dr. Wenderfer covered by provincial health insurance?

Most specialized medical care for kidney diseases provided by Dr. Wenderfer is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes appointments, prescribed kidney function tests, management of dialysis, and care before and after a kidney transplant. Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Wenderfer's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.

How does Dr. Wenderfer help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Wenderfer, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. He can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Wenderfer?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Wenderfer for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)). This ensures that Dr. Wenderfer receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 875-3649.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Wenderfer and a Urologist?

The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Wenderfer, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Wenderfer?

A consultation with Dr. Wenderfer is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.

a specialized nephrology clinic in Vancouver
4480 Oak St, Bc Childrens Hospital, Division of Nephrology
Vancouver, BC V6H 0B3

Office Phone: (604) 875-2272 | Office Fax: (604) 875-3649

Dr. Wenderfer is a licensed Nephrologist 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 another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Wenderfer, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Wenderfer's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/375395/Wenderfer%2CScott