Dr. Susan Gloria Barr – Internist / Geriatrician | Calgary, AB

Dr. Susan Gloria Barr, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Calgary, AB, she serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that each patient receives safe and comprehensive care.

Dr. Barr graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Queen's University in 1990, Canada. She has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including specialty certification in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. Her certifications reflect a commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in her field.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a warm, patient-centered approach that values open communication and community engagement. She is dedicated to serving adults, including seniors, and speaks English fluently. Dr. Barr is committed to contributing positively to Calgary's healthcare community, building trusting relationships with her patients and their families.

Dr. Barr provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

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.
• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.

Dr. Barr 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.

• Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
• Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
• Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Barr. 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. Barr'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. Barr's practice is located in the southwest area of Calgary, in the vibrant Bankview neighborhood near Marda Loop. The location offers convenient access, connecting the NW/SW and North Hill Centre areas, and is easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Barr 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. Barr. 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 is involved in a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)?

A CGA is a detailed evaluation specifically designed for older adults. It goes beyond standard medical checks to assess multiple domains including: medical conditions, medication review (polypharmacy), functional status (ability to perform daily tasks), mobility and fall risk, cognitive health (memory and thinking), mood (screening for depression/anxiety), nutrition, and social support systems. Dr. Barr uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan. The assessment helps tailor interventions to support independence and well-being in older adults.

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

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Thyroid Disorders or Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup is crucial, Dr. Barr 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 (Perioperative Medical Optimization), and participation in meaningful activities.

1820 Richmond Rd SW, Richmond Road Diagnostic & Treatment Centre
Calgary, AB T2T 5C7

Phone: (403) 955-8907 | Fax: (403) 955-8196

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Barr 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=96da07ee-5aaa-4f62-8194-e224ef05bf97&i=141