Dr. Sonja Evelyn Rummell – Internist / Geriatrician | New Westminster, BC

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Sonja Evelyn Rummell serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in New Westminster, BC, she serves the surrounding communities. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, ethical care. Dr. Rummell’s focus includes specialty practice in geriatric medicine and internal medicine, providing comprehensive care to adult patients, especially older adults and seniors.

Dr. Rummell graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of British Columbia in 2018. She has completed relevant postgraduate training and certifications in internal medicine and geriatric care, equipping her with up-to-date knowledge and skills to manage complex health conditions in adults.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a clear and educational approach, ensuring patients understand their health conditions and treatment options. Dr. Rummell is committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to her patients in New Westminster. She speaks English fluently, facilitating effective communication and patient engagement.

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

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
• Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
• Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
• Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
• Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
• 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.

Dr. Rummell 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.

• Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
• Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
• Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
• Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Rummell. 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. Rummell'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. Rummell's practice is located in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster, BC. The location is conveniently situated near River Market and the Historic Downtown area, making it easily accessible for patients from surrounding communities. Patients can reach the clinic via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

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

What is involved in a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)?

A CGA is a detailed evaluation specifically designed for older adults. It goes beyond standard medical checks to assess multiple domains including: medical conditions, medication review (polypharmacy), functional status (ability to perform daily tasks), mobility and fall risk, cognitive health (memory and thinking), mood (screening for depression/anxiety), nutrition, and social support systems. Dr. Rummell uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan.

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. Rummell.

230 Ross Dr, New Westminster Specialized Seniors' Clinic
New Westminster, BC V3L 0B1

Phone: (604) 528-5031 | Fax: (604) 528-5030

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rummell 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/346044/Rummell%2CSonja