Dr. Stephanie Erin Thompson – Internist / Geriatrician | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Stephanie Erin Thompson is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Edmonton, AB, she serves the surrounding communities with a patient-centered approach, emphasizing thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plans. Her practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring safe and ethical medical care.

Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include Nephrology, where she focuses on kidney health and managing related chronic conditions. Dr. Thompson has extensive experience in addressing multi-system health issues common in older adults and those with complex medical histories, aiming to improve quality of life and functional independence.

Dr. Thompson earned her MD Doctor of Medicine from Dalhousie University in 2006 and completed comprehensive postgraduate medical training in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. She continually updates her knowledge to incorporate the latest evidence-based practices and guidelines.

Her clinical philosophy centers on clear, educational communication and holistic patient care. She is committed to serving the Edmonton community and speaks English fluently. Dr. Thompson’s approach emphasizes understanding each patient's unique circumstances, fostering collaborative decision-making, and promoting health literacy to empower her patients in managing their health effectively.

Dr. Thompson 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.
• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
• Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
• Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.

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.

Dr. Thompson 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.

• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
• Coordination of Specialist Care: Acting as a central point of contact to help manage and coordinate input from various medical specialists for patients with multi-system diseases.
• 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.
• Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Thompson. 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. Thompson'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 Alberta (CPSA).

Dr. Thompson's practice is located in South Central Edmonton, in close proximity to the University of Alberta, Garneau, and Windsor Park neighborhoods. The location is conveniently accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes, providing easy access for patients throughout the city. The nearby Botanical Gardens (Pyramids) serve as a landmark for the area. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Thompson? Is it covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)?

In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Thompson are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)) 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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. Thompson. 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 should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?

Dr. Thompson's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.

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. Dr. Thompson, 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.

Does Dr. Thompson handle prescription refills?

Generally, ongoing prescription refills should be managed through your family doctor (primary care provider). Dr. Thompson will make initial recommendations or adjustments, but routine refills are best handled by your family doctor who manages your overall care, unless specific arrangements are made for certain specialized medications.

11-112R Clinical Sciences Building University of Alberta
Edmonton, AB T6G 0G9

Phone: (780) 492-4228 | Fax: (780) 670-3239

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Thompson is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=117d97a2-00f4-429c-90c9-9dcc859b921c&i=1442