Dr. Shea Pertman – Endocrinologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Shea Pertman, a Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus), provides expert care for adult patients, and may also see older adolescents for certain endocrine conditions. With conditions related to Diabetes & Metabolism, she practices at an endocrinology clinic within an Edmonton hospital department in the W Central: Crestwood, Parkview neighborhood. She is a key member of the local medical community, adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Her practice primarily centers on the comprehensive management of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and lipid disorders, utilizing advanced diagnostic and treatment strategies to optimize hormonal and metabolic health.

Dr. Pertman graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of British Columbia in Canada. She has completed extensive postgraduate training in endocrinology and holds the necessary certifications to practice as an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism) in Alberta. Her credentials include specialty certification from recognized endocrinological certification boards, ensuring her expertise in hormone and metabolism care.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in a commitment to evidence-based hormonal and metabolic care, emphasizing patient education, early and accurate diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans that focus on long-term well-being. Dedicated to serving patients in Edmonton, Dr. Pertman offers comprehensive endocrine evaluations and management in English, ensuring clear communication and patient-centered care.

Dr. Shea Pertman diagnoses and treats a wide range of hormonal and metabolic disorders, including:

Diabetes & Related Metabolic Disorders

• 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.
• Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X, Insulin Resistance Syndrome): A cluster of conditions (central obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol/triglyceride levels) occurring together, elevating the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol, High Triglycerides, Low HDL): Abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, including elevated LDL ('bad') cholesterol, high triglycerides, or low HDL ('good') cholesterol, significantly increasing cardiovascular disease risk.

Bone Health & Mineral Metabolism Disorders

• Osteoporosis (Postmenopausal, Senile, Glucocorticoid-Induced): A progressive bone disease characterized by decreased bone mass and density, leading to an increased risk of fractures, particularly of the hip, spine, and wrist.
• Rickets & Osteomalacia: Conditions characterized by softening and weakening of bones, typically due to severe and prolonged vitamin D deficiency. Rickets occurs in children, leading to skeletal deformities, while osteomalacia occurs in adults.

Pituitary, Adrenal & Gonadal Axis Disorders

• Pituitary Adenomas & Tumors (e.g., Prolactinoma, Non-Functioning Adenoma, GH-secreting/Acromegaly, ACTH-secreting/Cushing's Disease): Mostly benign growths in the pituitary gland that can cause symptoms due to hormone overproduction (e.g., prolactin, growth hormone, ACTH), hormone deficiency (hypopituitarism), or pressure effects on surrounding structures.
• Primary Aldosteronism (Conn's Syndrome): A condition where the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone, leading to high blood pressure and low potassium levels.
• Hypopituitarism (Panhypopituitarism, Isolated Hormone Deficiencies): Condition where the pituitary gland fails to produce adequate amounts of one or more crucial hormones (e.g., GH, ACTH, TSH, LH/FSH, ADH), requiring hormone replacement therapy.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific tests and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Pertman 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant endocrinological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Shea Pertman's practice is situated within an endocrinology clinic at a hospital department in Edmonton’s W Central: Crestwood, Parkview neighborhood. The facility is easily accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus), with multiple public transit options. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring ease of access for all patients. The location is well-positioned near major community landmarks and the Edmonton Elks CFL team stadium, making it a convenient choice for those seeking specialized hormone and metabolism care in the city.

Are consultations, hormone tests, and treatments with Dr. Pertman, an Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus), covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Endocrinologist (Diabetes & Metabolism Focus) like Dr. Pertman, 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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. Pertman's office, the hospital/clinic, or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) directly.

Is a referral required to see Dr. Pertman, 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. Pertman. 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.

Does Dr. Pertman deal with hormonal issues related to infertility or conditions like PCOS?

Yes, as a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility specialist (REI), Dr. Pertman has advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex hormonal disorders that affect fertility and reproductive health in both women and men. This includes conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), ovulatory dysfunction, endometriosis-related hormonal issues, premature ovarian insufficiency, male hypogonadism impacting fertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss. She can manage ovulation induction, provide hormonal support for assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, and address other intricate reproductive endocrine problems.

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and when might Dr. Pertman recommend it?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) involves taking medication to replace hormones that the body is no longer producing in sufficient amounts. Dr. Pertman might recommend HRT for various conditions. For example, thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) is used for hypothyroidism. For women experiencing troublesome menopausal symptoms, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT, using estrogen with or without progestogen) can be considered. For men with confirmed hypogonadism (low testosterone) and symptoms, testosterone replacement therapy may be an option. HRT is also crucial for individuals with adrenal insufficiency (cortisol/aldosterone replacement) or hypopituitarism (replacing deficient pituitary hormones). The decision to use HRT is highly individualized, based on the specific condition, symptoms, benefits, and potential risks, which Dr. Pertman will discuss thoroughly.

What symptoms might lead my doctor to refer me to an Endocrinologist like Dr. Pertman?

Your doctor might refer you to an Endocrinologist like Dr. Pertman 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.

16940 87 Ave NW, Mother Rosalie Health Services Center MCH
Edmonton, AB T5R 4H5

Phone: (780) 735-2824

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

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

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=e5bb6b8d-1266-44d5-8acf-a68814d7ac55&i=1152