Dr. Stephen Michael Milne – Family Doctor | Coquitlam, BC

Dr. Stephen Michael Milne is a Family Doctor. Practicing at Sunwood Medical Clinic- Coquitlam in Coquitlam, BC, he is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. He focuses on providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. He serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Stephen Michael Milne completed his MB ChB (University of Cape Town, 1982). He brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. He has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. He is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of his practice philosophy include a strong belief in patient-centered care, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, values, and circumstances; advocating for patients' needs within the healthcare system and coordinating care effectively with specialists and community services. He provides consultations in English.

Dr. Stephen Michael Milne provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Chronic Conditions

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) & Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) - Chronic Management: Developing long-term strategies for managing acid-related digestive disorders effectively.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - Early to Moderate Stages: Early detection, monitoring of kidney function (e.g., eGFR, urine ACR), management of risk factors that can worsen CKD (especially diabetes and hypertension), medication review to avoid nephrotoxic drugs, lifestyle counseling (dietary advice on protein, sodium, potassium), and timely referrals to nephrology for patients with early to moderate stage chronic kidney disease to slow progression and prevent complications.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol, High Triglycerides): Personalized treatment plans for managing elevated lipid levels, incorporating regular monitoring, patient education, and strategies for long-term cardiovascular disease prevention.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Providing initial management strategies for RLS, including lifestyle modifications (e.g., regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, avoiding caffeine/alcohol close to bedtime), checking and correcting iron deficiency (ferritin levels), and considering pharmacological options (e.g., dopamine agonists like pramipexole/ropinirole, gabapentin enacarbil) for moderate to severe, frequent symptoms that significantly impact sleep or quality of life. Referral to neurology or sleep specialist for complex or refractory cases.
• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Primary care support for managing discomfort and preventing complications associated with venous disease. Referral to vascular specialists or phlebologists for more advanced treatments (e.g., sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, surgery) if symptoms are severe, progressive, or complicated by ulceration or recurrent phlebitis.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Symptom Management & Monitoring: Referral to urology for severe symptoms, complications (e.g., acute urinary retention, recurrent UTIs, bladder stones, renal impairment due to obstruction), or if surgical intervention (e.g., TURP) is being considered.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Helping patients find relief from itchy, irritated, or dry eyes through appropriate primary care interventions and guidance.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Bacterial Skin Infections (Impetigo, Folliculitis, Cellulitis - uncomplicated): Prompt primary care for bacterial skin infections to ensure appropriate treatment and avoid potential complications. Severe or rapidly progressing cellulitis may require hospital admission for IV antibiotics.
• Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate) & Rosacea Management: Diagnosis and management of common acne (comedonal, papulopustular) and rosacea (erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular types) with topical treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, topical antibiotics, metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin), oral antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines for inflammatory acne/rosacea, if indicated), and comprehensive lifestyle/skincare advice (gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products, sun protection for rosacea, trigger avoidance for rosacea). Referral to dermatology for severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne/rosacea.
• Benign Skin Lesion Assessment & Management (Skin Tags, Seborrheic Keratoses, Cysts, Lipomas): Evaluating common benign (non-cancerous) skin growths like skin tags (acrochordons), seborrheic keratoses ('age spots'), cherry angiomas, dermatofibromas, epidermal cysts, and lipomas. Providing reassurance regarding their benign nature and offering in-office removal (e.g., cryotherapy, snip excision, curettage, simple excision for cysts/lipomas if trained/equipped) for cosmetic reasons, if causing irritation, or for diagnostic certainty if there's any ambiguity.
• Fungal Skin, Nail & Hair Infections (Tinea species, Candidiasis, Onychomycosis): Providing effective remedies for bothersome and often contagious fungal infections of the skin, hair shafts, and nails, along with advice on hygiene and prevention of recurrence.

Mental Health Concerns

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Providing primary care support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of ADHD, helping to optimize focus, reduce impulsivity/hyperactivity, improve executive functioning, and enhance overall quality of life and academic/occupational success.
• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Providing support, psychoeducation, and coping strategies for managing the physical and emotional impacts of acute or chronic life stressors, workplace burnout, or difficulties adjusting to significant life changes (e.g., bereavement, job loss, relationship changes, illness).
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Helping individuals navigate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and other depressive symptoms, aiming to restore emotional well-being, daily functioning, and prevent relapse.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Comprehensive primary care management of common sleep disorders to restore healthy sleep patterns and improve overall health and well-being.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Milne. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Weight Management & Healthy Weight Strategies: Collaboratively discussing healthy weight goals based on BMI, waist circumference, and overall health status. Providing guidance on balanced nutrition, portion control, mindful eating, regular physical activity, behavioral strategies (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, addressing emotional eating), and addressing underlying factors contributing to weight issues. Medical options may be discussed if appropriate based on guidelines and individual assessment.
• Joint Injections for Pain Relief (e.g., Corticosteroid - if trained/equipped): Offering targeted injections as part of a comprehensive management plan for certain types of joint pain.
• Coordination with Allied Health Professionals & Community Health Services: Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide holistic, patient-centered care that addresses all aspects of your physical, mental, and social well-being.
• Eczema, Psoriasis (Mild) & Other Common Rashes: Helping patients control flare-ups of itchy, inflamed skin and maintain healthy skin barrier function.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Expert management of a wide spectrum of acute illnesses affecting infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and teenagers, including appropriate antibiotic stewardship.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Milne. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Sunwood Medical Clinic- Coquitlam, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Milne frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Struggling with getting a comprehensive skin check for new or changing spots, especially with a history of significant sun exposure or family history of skin cancer? Dr. Milne helps patients target feeling a genuine, strong, and enduring sense of partnership and close collaboration with Dr. Milne in working consistently and effectively towards their mutually agreed-upon, meaningful health goals and overall state of well-being, making a return to activities such as feeling profoundly secure, deeply supported, and well-understood in having a trusted, accessible, and long-term medical advisor and health partner in Dr. Milne for any and all health questions, new symptoms, or emerging concerns that arise throughout their lives more achievable.
• The focus for patients with wanting to discuss options for medical assistance in dying (MAID) for a terminal condition (in provinces where applicable) at Dr. Milne's practice is achieving gaining a much clearer and personalized understanding of their individual health risks (e.g., cardiovascular disease based on Framingham score, inherited cancer predispositions, osteoporosis risk) and practical, actionable, evidence-based steps they can realistically take to mitigate these risks effectively, facilitating a return to meaningful activities like effortlessly keeping up actively and playfully with their energetic young children, adventurous grandchildren, or even active pets, without getting easily winded, overly sore, or needing to sit out frequently.
• Dr. Milne frequently helps patients who are dealing with wanting reliable advice and a realistic plan on how to eat healthier, manage their weight better, or start exercising safely. The primary aim is achieving their entire family feeling much better prepared for common health emergencies or accidents after discussing age-appropriate safety plans, basic first aid, and when to seek urgent care with Dr. Milne, which often allows them to confidently resume compassionately providing meaningful emotional, practical, and sometimes physical support to close friends, extended family members, or community acquaintances who may be going through their own difficult times or personal crises.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Milne, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Milne practices at Sunwood Medical Clinic- Coquitlam, situated in the Coquitlam Town Centre, Eagle Ridge neighbourhood of Coquitlam. The clinic is conveniently located near access to the Port Mann Bridge/Hwy 1 and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Millennium Line, West Coast Express, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC who is accepting new patients?

Finding a family doctor in BC who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC often has a ‘Find a Doctor’ tool or list on their website. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also be helpful. Provincial programs may exist to assist with finding a doctor; check your provincial health authority website for details.

What if Dr. Milne works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Milne?

Dr. Milne practices as part of Sunwood Medical Clinic- Coquitlam, which often means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals like nurses, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, or pharmacists working together. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary family doctor, Dr. Milne, for some urgent issues, routine follow-ups, or specific services, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This collaborative approach can enhance access to care and provide comprehensive support. Sunwood Medical Clinic- Coquitlam will always strive to have you see Dr. Milne for complex or ongoing issues where that continuity is most crucial.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor (BC) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see a family doctor in BC if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website, may be helpful in your search. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see most medical specialists.

How often should I see Dr. Milne for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups or periodic health exams with Dr. Milne can vary based on your age, overall health, any existing medical conditions, and specific risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need a full check-up less frequently (e.g., every 2-5 years if no concerns), while children, older adults (e.g., annually over 65), or individuals with chronic conditions may benefit from more frequent visits (e.g., annually or semi-annually). For specific screening tests like Pap smears or mammograms, there are established provincial guidelines based on age and gender which Dr. Milne follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Milne to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care. Even if you feel healthy, regular check-ins can be important for early detection and health maintenance.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with Sunwood Medical Clinic- Coquitlam if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

Sunwood Medical Clinic- Coquitlam
3000 Lougheed Hwy, The Real Canadian Superstore, Sunwood Medical
Coquitlam, BC, V3B 1C5

Phone: (604) 464-0345 | Website: http://www.health-local.com/clinic/walk-in-clinics/coquitlam/british-columbia/sunwood-medical-clinic

Dr. Stephen Michael Milne is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 9048

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/306600/Milne%2CStephen

Family doctors like Dr. Milne are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.