Dr. Sonya Varma – Internist / Geriatrician | Richmond, BC

Dr. Sonya Varma, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Richmond, BC, she serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include specialty practice in internal medicine, emphasizing holistic management of complex adult health issues.

Dr. Varma graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 1997 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in internal medicine and geriatrics. She holds certifications in areas relevant to her specialty, ensuring her practice incorporates the latest evidence-based approaches and clinical guidelines. Her training underpins her ability to manage a broad spectrum of medical conditions affecting adults and seniors.

Her clinical philosophy is centered on clear and educational communication, ensuring patients and their families understand their health conditions and treatment options. She is dedicated to providing accessible care in Richmond and speaks English fluently. Dr. Varma is committed to improving her patients' quality of life through personalized, respectful, and up-to-date medical care.

Dr. Varma 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.
• Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
• Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
• Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• 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.

Dr. Varma 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.

• Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Varma. 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. Varma'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. Varma's practice is located in the West Richmond neighborhood, specifically near Terra Nova and Thompson areas. The location offers convenient access to Highway 99 and Garry Point Park, making it easy for patients to reach. Patients can access the clinic via TransLink, including the Canada Line SkyTrain and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to accommodate patients with mobility challenges. Parking is available at the facility for those arriving by car, ensuring easy and hassle-free visits.

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

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

Is the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?

While diagnosing and managing diseases like investigation of anemia or delirium prevention and management is crucial, Dr. Varma also places significant emphasis on maintaining or improving daily function and quality of life, especially for older adults. The goal is often to help patients remain as independent and active as possible, addressing issues like mobility, self-care (Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes), and participation in meaningful activities.

186-8120 No 2 Rd, PO Box 237
Richmond, BC V7C 5J8

Phone: (604) 690-8904

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Varma 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/344789/Varma%2CSonya