About
Dr. Sui Sang Lam is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in New Westminster in New Westminster, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment tailored to their individual needs. Dr. Lam’s focus is on delivering compassionate, comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney diseases, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
He graduated with an MB BS from the University of Hong Kong in 1981. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 38 years of experience since 1986, Dr. Lam is a board-certified Nephrologist. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice and ongoing professional development.
Dr. Lam’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and enhancing the quality of life for his patients. He is dedicated to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them to participate actively in their care. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes through early detection, prevention of progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. He values collaborative care, working closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic support. Fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, he ensures clear communication with all patients, fostering trust and understanding in his practice.
Dr. Sui Lam provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Lam addresses early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CKD.
- Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Effective blood pressure management is key to slowing progression.
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A leading cause of CKD and end-stage renal disease.
- Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.
Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)
Dr. Lam addresses diagnosis often requires a kidney biopsy, and treatment may involve immunosuppressive medications.
- Lupus Nephritis: Requires aggressive immunosuppressive therapy to prevent kidney failure.
- IgA Nephropathy (Berger's Disease): Clinical course varies; some progress to kidney failure. Treatment may include blood pressure control and immunosuppression.
- Nephritic Syndrome: Common causes include Post-infectious Glomerulonephritis, IgA Nephropathy, and Lupus Nephritis.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Lam addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Management involves treating the specific kidney injury, supportive care, and sometimes dialysis.
- Post-renal AKI: Treatment involves relieving the obstruction to allow normal urine flow.
- Pre-renal AKI: Treatment focuses on restoring kidney perfusion by addressing the underlying cause (e.g., fluid resuscitation).
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Sui Lam is necessary.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Ongoing care for patients with all stages of chronic kidney disease, focusing on slowing progression and managing complications.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Close collaboration with endocrinologists and primary care physicians.
- Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Evaluation and management of various glomerular diseases like IgA nephropathy, FSGS, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: In-hospital and outpatient follow-up for AKI.
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Proactive care to improve quality of life and outcomes for dialysis patients.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Lam.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Lam practices at a specialized nephrology clinic located in New Westminster's Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near River Market, easily accessible via TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo Line and local bus routes. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional environment for comprehensive kidney care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for patients with mobility needs. Patients can expect a welcoming atmosphere dedicated to their health and well-being.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Lam?
- You should see a Nephrologist like Dr. Lam if you have been diagnosed with kidney disease, have significant risk factors (like diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension with signs of kidney impact), or experience symptoms such as persistent swelling, changes in urination, blood or protein in urine, or unexplained fatigue that your family doctor suspects is kidney-related. A referral from your primary care physician or another specialist is typically required.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Lam might discuss?
- Dr. Lam can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Lam would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Lam?
- Dr. Lam is involved in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. This means his role includes assessing if a transplant is a good option for you, helping manage your kidney disease before transplant, and providing ongoing medical care after the surgery. This post-transplant care is vital for the long-term success of the new kidney and involves medication management and regular check-ups.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Lam and a Urologist?
- The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Lam, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Lam?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Lam manages numerous conditions affecting the kidneys. These frequently include different stages of Chronic Kidney Disease, high blood pressure affecting the kidneys, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, kidney stones (medical management), and advanced kidney failure requiring renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplant). specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- Are services from Dr. Lam covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Lam, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Lam's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- How does Dr. Lam help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?
- Managing high blood pressure is a key part of kidney care. Dr. Lam can assess complex cases of hypertension, identify if it's related to kidney problems (renal hypertension), and tailor treatment plans that may include specialized medications or adjustments to existing ones to achieve target blood pressure levels and slow down any kidney damage.
a specialized nephrology clinic in New Westminster
447 East Columbia Street
New Westminster, BC V3L 3X3
Office Phone: (604) 525-9666 | Office Fax: (604) 525-2173
Dr. Lam is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Lam, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Lam's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/313541/Lam%2CSui%20Sang