About
Dr. Sonja Lubbers, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Thunder Bay, ON, she serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered healthcare. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that all clinical activities meet rigorous professional guidelines. Dr. Lubbers provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, addressing the complex health needs of adult patients, including older adults and seniors.
Dr. Sonja Lubbers graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands in 2009. She has completed extensive postgraduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized fellowships in Geriatric Medicine. Her certifications are recognized nationally and internationally, reflecting her expertise and dedication to continuous professional development. She remains actively involved in medical education and quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes.
Her clinical philosophy is rooted in an evidence-based and informative approach, emphasizing thorough assessment, personalized treatment plans, and shared decision-making. Committed to the community of Thunder Bay, she speaks both Dutch and English fluently, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations. Dr. Lubbers strives to provide care that is scientifically sound, compassionate, and tailored to each patient's unique health circumstances.
Dr. Lubbers provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
- Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- 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.
- Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- 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.
Dr. Lubbers 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
- Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Lubbers. 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. Lubbers'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 Ontario (CPSO).
Dr. Lubbers's practice is situated in the Port Arthur Central neighborhood of Thunder Bay, ON, within the vibrant Downtown North Core and Waterfront area. The location is conveniently near Marina Park and Prince Arthur's Landing, making it easily accessible for patients. The facility is reachable via Thunder Bay Transit, with multiple bus routes servicing the area. The practice location is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for patients and visitors.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Lubbers? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Lubbers are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)) 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) 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. Lubbers. 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.
- Can Dr. Sonja Lubbers provide advice on healthy aging?
- Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. Lubbers can discuss evidence-based strategies for healthy aging. This might include advice on appropriate exercise, nutrition, preventative health screenings, vaccinations, cognitive health maintenance, and managing chronic conditions effectively to promote longevity and well-being.
961 Oliver Road
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1
Phone: (807) 766-7300
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Lubbers is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lubbers-Sonja/0325530-116850