About
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Sigrid Svarta offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Kamloops, BC, she serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe, comprehensive, and compassionate care. Dr. Svarta’s role encompasses a broad spectrum of adult medicine, with a particular focus on the complex health needs of older adults, emphasizing personalized treatment plans that respect each patient's unique circumstances.
Dr. Svarta graduated with her MD from Kobenhavns Universitet in Denmark in 2007. She has completed relevant post-graduate training and certifications in internal medicine and geriatrics, equipping her with a thorough understanding of adult and senior health care. Her credentials include certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in Internal Medicine, along with additional specialized training in geriatric assessment and management.
With a warm and community-oriented philosophy, Dr. Svarta is committed to providing accessible, respectful, and holistic care to her patients. She speaks both English and Danish fluently, which allows her to serve a diverse patient population. Her dedication to Kamloops’ community is reflected in her compassionate approach, striving to enhance health outcomes and quality of life for her patients in a supportive environment.
Dr. Svarta provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
- Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
Dr. Svarta 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.
- Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
- Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.
- Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Svarta. 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. Svarta'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. Svarta's practice is located in the vibrant downtown area of Kamloops, within the South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Royal Inland Hospital and Thompson Rivers University (TRU), making it accessible for patients from across the community. Patients can reach the clinic easily via the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring accessible transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for patients arriving by car.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Svarta? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Svarta 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. Svarta. 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.
- How does a Geriatrician's role differ?
- A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss, and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Svarta, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. She often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.
- What are typical wait times for an appointment?
- Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly depending on the urgency of the referral, the volume of requests, and Dr. Svarta's availability. Our office prioritizes referrals based on medical need. We strive to see patients as promptly as possible and will contact you once the referral is processed to schedule an appointment. You can inquire about approximate wait times when booking.
- What kind of tests might Dr. Svarta order?
- Depending on your specific medical situation, Dr. Svarta 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.
311 Columbia St, Royal Inland Hospital
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1
Phone: (250) 379-4352
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Svarta 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/336310/Svarta%2CSigrid