Dr. Xiaofu Zhu – Internist / Geriatrician | Edmonton, AB

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Xiaofu Zhu offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Edmonton, AB, he serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Zhu’s focus is on providing comprehensive evaluation and management for adult patients, including older adults and seniors, ensuring their unique health needs are addressed with compassion and expertise.

Dr. Zhu graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Western Ontario in 2009. He has completed extensive postgraduate medical training, including residency in internal medicine, and has earned certifications in relevant areas of adult and geriatric medicine. His education and training ensure he is well-equipped to manage complex medical conditions and provide evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s circumstances.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes clear, educational communication, empowering patients through understanding of their health conditions. He is dedicated to serving the Edmonton community, speaking English fluently, and fostering a respectful, collaborative doctor-patient relationship. Dr. Zhu is committed to continuous learning and applying the latest medical advancements to improve patient outcomes.

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

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
• 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.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.

Dr. Zhu 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.
• 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.
• Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures 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. Zhu. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, he provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Zhu'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. Zhu's practice is located in the south-central area of Edmonton, near the University of Alberta, in the Garneau and Windsor Park neighborhoods. The location provides convenient access to the Edmonton Botanical Gardens (Pyramids) and is easily reachable via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In AB, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Zhu 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. Zhu. 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.

Is Dr. Zhu affiliated with a specific hospital?

Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Zhu may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at specific local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Zhu as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.

Why is reviewing multiple medications (polypharmacy) important?

As people age or develop multiple health conditions, they often take many medications. Polypharmacy increases the risk of side effects, drug interactions, falls, confusion, and non-adherence. A careful review helps ensure each medication is truly necessary, effective, and safe, potentially leading to deprescribing (stopping unnecessary drugs) and simplifying the regimen.

Does Dr. Zhu discuss goals of care or advance care planning?

Yes, discussing goals of care is an important part of patient-centered practice, especially in managing chronic illness or in geriatric care. Dr. Zhu encourages conversations about patient values, preferences for future medical treatment, and advance care planning (including identifying a substitute decision-maker) to ensure care aligns with what matters most to the patient. He can provide information and facilitate these discussions.

Does Dr. Zhu handle prescription refills?

Generally, ongoing prescription refills should be managed through your family doctor (primary care provider). Dr. Zhu 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.

11560 University Ave NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2

Phone: (780) 432-8514 | Fax: (780) 432-8888

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Zhu 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=d43279be-15b3-40d7-b39a-66b55d8d45c4&i=1619