Dr. Shawnik Bhargava – Internist / Geriatrician | Red Deer, AB

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Shawnik Bhargava offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Red Deer, AB, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, ethical, and patient-centered medical services.

Dr. Bhargava graduated with a MB BCh in 2017 from Ireland and has completed extensive postgraduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatric care. He has earned key certifications and has gained valuable experience through rigorous clinical rotations and specialized training programs, equipping him to address complex adult and senior health concerns effectively.

With a clear and educational approach to medicine, Dr. Bhargava is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to each patient's needs. He speaks English fluently and is dedicated to serving the Red Deer community with compassion and professionalism. His clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, shared decision-making, and holistic management to promote optimal health outcomes for his patients.

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

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
• Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• 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.
• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
• 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.

Dr. Bhargava 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.

• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
• Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• 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. Bhargava. 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. Bhargava'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 Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Bhargava's practice is located in North Red Deer, in the neighborhoods of Normandeau and Highland Green, situated along a busy commercial corridor. The location is easily accessible via Red Deer Transit, with nearby bus stops serving the area. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring convenient access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for patients arriving by car. The surrounding area offers ample parking options to accommodate visitors.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Bhargava? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Bhargava are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)) 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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. Bhargava. 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.

Why is reviewing multiple medications (polypharmacy) important?

As people age or develop multiple health conditions, they often take many medications. Polypharmacy increases the risk of side effects, drug interactions, falls, confusion, and non-adherence. A careful review helps ensure each medication is truly necessary, effective, and safe, potentially leading to deprescribing (stopping unnecessary drugs) and simplifying the regimen.

What happens after the initial consultation?

After your assessment, Dr. Bhargava will typically send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations to your referring physician. Depending on your specific situation and the reason for referral, Dr. Bhargava may arrange follow-up appointments, order further tests, or transition care management back to your family doctor with specialist guidance. The plan will be discussed with you.

3942 50A Ave
Red Deer, AB T4N 4E7

Phone: (403) 343-4422

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Bhargava is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=83d2fab1-08a9-4b13-a578-b47537dc8fe1&i=174