Dr. Ying Ying Zhao – Internist / Geriatrician | Hamilton, ON

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Ying Ying Zhao serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Hamilton, ON, she provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, focusing on adult patients, including seniors. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring quality and ethical medical services.

Dr. Zhao graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 2008 in Canada. She completed extensive postgraduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine, with additional specialization in Geriatric Medicine. Her certifications include fellowships and memberships with relevant professional bodies, emphasizing her commitment to ongoing education and clinical excellence.

Guided by a clear and educational approach, Dr. Zhao is dedicated to providing patient-centered care. She is committed to the health and well-being of her community in Hamilton and speaks both English and Mandarin, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations. Her philosophy emphasizes compassionate, evidence-based practices to optimize health outcomes for her patients.

Dr. Zhao 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.
• Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
• Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
• Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
• Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.

Dr. Zhao 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.

• Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
• Coordination of Specialist Care: Acting as a central point of contact to help manage and coordinate input from various medical specialists for patients with multi-system diseases.
• Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Zhao. 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. Zhao'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 Ontario (CPSO).

Dr. Zhao's practice is located in the Durand neighbourhood, within the Kirkendall South area of Hamilton. She practices at Norwest Community Health Centre, situated close to Eastgate Square and the Battlefield House Museum & Park National Historic Site in Stoney Creek. The clinic is easily accessible via the Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Zhao? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Zhao are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)) 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) 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. Zhao. 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 the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Cardiovascular Conditions or Frailty Assessment & Management is crucial, Dr. Zhao 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.

How long should I expect my appointment to last?

Initial consultations with Dr. Zhao are comprehensive and typically require more time, often ranging from 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical history and concerns. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter. We recommend allowing ample time for your visit, including check-in and potential waiting periods.

What is the appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24-48 hours' notice so we can offer the time slot to another patient waiting for consultation. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in a missed appointment fee (if applicable per clinic policy). Please contact the office directly to make changes.

Norwest Community Health Centre
55 Frid Street
Hamilton, ON L8P 4M3

Phone: (905) 529-2259 | Fax: (905) 529-2262

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Zhao is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Zhao-Ying-Ying/0250804-88379