About
Dr. Susan Mathew Samuel is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Calgary in Calgary, AB, she is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Samuel's role as a Nephrologist involves the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of care for a wide spectrum of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 2001. Following her medical degree, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 18 years of experience practicing as a Nephrologist since 2006, she has developed extensive expertise in the field. Dr. Samuel has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice Nephrology in Alberta, ensuring she remains current with the latest advances and guidelines in kidney care.
Dr. Samuel’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for her patients. She emphasizes educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them in shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, she aims for optimal patient outcomes. Her approach focuses on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and the comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to provide holistic, patient-centered care. Additionally, she is proficient in Malayalam, which facilitates clear communication with a diverse patient population in Calgary.
Dr. Susan Samuel provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Samuel addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Kidney biopsy may be needed for diagnosis in some cases.
- Pre-renal AKI: Caused by reduced blood flow to the kidneys, often due to severe dehydration, blood loss, heart failure, or sepsis.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Risk factors include pre-existing CKD, diabetes, and dehydration.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Samuel addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.
- Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.
- Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Discussions about dialysis options and kidney transplantation.
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): Requires strict blood glucose and blood pressure control, along with specific kidney-protective medications.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Samuel addresses management of high blood pressure, especially when it's difficult to control or related to kidney disease, and disorders of body salts and minerals.
- Resistant Hypertension: Evaluation focuses on identifying secondary causes and optimizing medication regimens.
- Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Potentially life-threatening if severe.
- Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Imbalances in the body's sodium and water levels, which can lead to serious neurological and systemic complications.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Susan Samuel is necessary.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Close collaboration with endocrinologists and primary care physicians.
- Hemodialysis Program Management (In-Centre and Home): Comprehensive management for patients undergoing in-centre hemodialysis.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Education on self-management strategies for CKD.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Genetic counseling and family screening coordination.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly resistant or secondary hypertension linked to kidney problems.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Samuel.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) 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. Samuel's nephrology clinic is located in the NW neighbourhoods of Calgary, including Bowness, Montgomery, and Greenwood. Situated in a modern facility near McMahon Stadium, the clinic is easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT routes. Patients will find the clinic to be accessible and comfortable, designed to facilitate comprehensive kidney care. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available, ensuring convenience for all visitors. The environment is professional and welcoming, dedicated to delivering personalized and thorough kidney health management.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Samuel?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Samuel plays a crucial role in the kidney transplant process. This includes evaluating your suitability for a transplant, managing your health while on the waiting list, coordinating with the transplant surgical team, and providing comprehensive medical care after the transplant to manage immunosuppressive medications and monitor for complications or rejection. She works as part of a multidisciplinary transplant team.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Samuel?
- A consultation with Dr. Samuel is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Samuel?
- Dr. Samuel treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. She specializes 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. Samuel covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Samuel, 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, Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Samuel's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Samuel and a Urologist?
- The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Samuel, 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 the main types of dialysis Dr. Samuel might discuss?
- If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Samuel may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. Samuel will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Samuel?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Samuel for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)). This ensures that Dr. Samuel receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. Please have your referring doctor's office contact Dr. Samuel's clinic for referral instructions.
a specialized nephrology clinic in Calgary
28 Oki Dr NW, Alberta Children's Hospital
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8
Office Phone: (403) 955-7211
Dr. Samuel is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Samuel, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
Verify Dr. Samuel's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=548cd29c-68cb-4a26-b96d-770f692b556f&i=1273