Dr. Mona Kessas – Internist / Geriatrician | Peterborough, ON

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Mona Kessas offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Peterborough, ON, she serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. She provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, ensuring patients receive individualized attention that respects their unique needs and circumstances.

Dr. Kessas graduated with a Medical Degree from St. George's University School of Medicine in 2012, located in Grenada. She completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency and specialized certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, equipping her with the skills necessary to manage complex adult and senior health conditions effectively.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes a compassionate, patient-centered approach. She is committed to serving the Peterborough community, speaking fluent English, Arabic, and French to better connect with diverse patient populations. Dr. Kessas strives to foster a trusting relationship with her patients, promoting health, independence, and quality of life across all stages of adulthood.

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

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.

Dr. Kessas 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.

• Management of Complex Chronic Diseases: Ongoing care and treatment optimization for adults managing multiple chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, hypertension, and respiratory illnesses.
• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
• 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.
• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Kessas. 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. Kessas'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. Kessas's practice is located in the vibrant downtown area of Peterborough, within the Central neighborhood. Patients have convenient access to the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre, both nearby. The facility is easily accessible via Peterborough Transit, ensuring efficient transportation options. The practice is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available at the facility for patient convenience.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Kessas 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. Kessas. 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 exactly does an Internist (Internal Medicine Specialist) do?

An Internist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing complex diseases primarily in adults. They are experts in managing conditions affecting multiple organ systems (Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup, Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation), handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.

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

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization is crucial, Dr. Kessas 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 (Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss), and participation in meaningful activities.

How long should I expect my appointment to last?

Initial consultations with Dr. Kessas 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 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. Kessas uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan.

1 Hospital Drive
Peterborough, ON K9J 7C6

Phone: (705) 743-2121

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kessas 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/Kessas-Mona/0305542-107792