Dr. Amal Talaat Wissa Ghobrial

Dr. Amal Talaat Wissa Ghobrial provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Pediatric Common Issues

• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Creating a safe, non-judgmental, and youth-friendly healthcare environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly, receive accurate information, build a trusting relationship with their doctor, and are empowered to take charge of their health.
• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Ensuring a healthy start for newborns with regular check-ups, timely interventions if issues arise, and resources for parental education and support.
• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Ensuring your child meets key developmental stages according to age, receives all recommended preventative health screenings (e.g., vision, hearing, anemia, lead - as per guidelines), and appropriate immunizations in a timely manner.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Initial assessment, diagnosis, and conservative management of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction related to repetitive tasks, sustained awkward postures, or ergonomic factors at work or during hobbies. This includes common conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome (mild-moderate), de Quervain's tenosynovitis, epicondylitis (tennis/golfer's elbow), trigger finger/thumb, rotator cuff tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, and non-specific arm/neck/shoulder pain attributable to overuse.
• Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Assessment and management of non-specific (mechanical) low back pain and neck pain, which accounts for the majority of spinal pain presentations. This includes taking a thorough history, performing a focused physical examination to rule out 'red flag' conditions (e.g., fracture, infection, malignancy, cauda equina syndrome), providing reassurance about the generally favorable prognosis of acute pain, and advising on pain relief (acetaminophen, NSAIDs, short-term muscle relaxants if severe spasm), maintaining activity as tolerated (avoiding prolonged bed rest), heat/cold application, and self-care strategies. For subacute or chronic pain, emphasis on active therapies (exercise, physiotherapy referral), addressing psychosocial factors (yellow flags), and promoting functional restoration.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Often co-managed with or referred to rheumatology, especially for atypical presentations, diagnostic uncertainty, difficulty tapering corticosteroids, frequent relapses, or suspected GCA. Primary care plays a key role in ongoing monitoring, patient education, and supportive care for PMR.
• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing effective treatment for acutely painful crystal-induced arthritis, focusing on rapid symptom relief during flares, and implementing robust long-term preventative measures for chronic gout to improve joint health and overall well-being.

Mental Health Concerns

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Providing primary care support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of ADHD, helping to optimize focus, reduce impulsivity/hyperactivity, improve executive functioning, and enhance overall quality of life and academic/occupational success.
• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Helping individuals build resilience, develop adaptive coping mechanisms (e.g., problem-solving, relaxation techniques, mindfulness), and navigate stressful periods effectively to protect their mental and physical health.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Comprehensive primary care management of common sleep disorders to restore healthy sleep patterns and improve overall health and well-being.
• Anxiety Disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety - Management): Ongoing management and support for anxiety disorders, helping patients develop coping strategies, achieve symptom remission or reduction, and improve overall well-being.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Ghobrial. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Travel Medicine Consultations (Preventative Advice & Routine/Travel Vaccinations): Providing pre-travel consultations for individuals travelling to common international destinations. This includes risk assessment based on itinerary, advice on food and water safety, insect bite prevention (malaria, dengue, Zika), altitude sickness prevention, and administration of necessary routine and travel-specific vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever if certified). Complex itineraries may require referral.
• Sexually Transmitted & Blood-Borne Infection (STBBI) Screening, Counseling & Treatment: Providing testing, education, treatment, and advice related to sexual health and the prevention and management of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
• Thyroid Disorder Management (Hypo/Hyperthyroidism, Nodules, Hashimoto's): Adjusting thyroid medication based on symptoms and regular blood tests (TSH, free T4, etc.) to maintain optimal thyroid function.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management (Early to Moderate Stages): Monitoring kidney function (e.g., eGFR, urine ACR), managing risk factors (especially diabetes and hypertension that can worsen CKD), medication review to avoid nephrotoxic drugs, and coordinating care for patients with early to moderate stage chronic kidney disease to slow progression and prevent complications.
• Routine Health Check-ups & Physicals for Adults: Scheduled visits for adults designed to proactively manage health risks, detect potential problems early, and offer personalized guidance on maintaining optimal health and well-being.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ghobrial. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in ON and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Parkdale Queen West CHC, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Ghobrial frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Many seek Dr. Ghobrial's help for having trouble falling asleep most nights, or waking up frequently and feeling exhausted. The collaborative goal is having their advance care plans and end-of-life wishes thoughtfully discussed, respectfully explored, and accurately documented with Dr. Ghobrial well in advance, ensuring their future autonomy and dignity are preserved, allowing a return to valued activities like fully sharing and enjoying relaxed, convivial meals and engaging conversations with their loved ones without being constantly preoccupied by nagging physical pain, digestive discomfort, or restrictive dietary anxieties.
• Patients often come to Dr. Ghobrial regarding their child having issues with persistent allergies, eczema flare-ups, or food sensitivities. Working together, they aim for having their unique cultural background, personal values, spiritual beliefs, and communication preferences consistently respected and thoughtfully incorporated into their personalized healthcare plan by an attentive and culturally sensitive Dr. Ghobrial, making a return to being physically and emotionally able to consistently attend and meaningfully participate in important community gatherings, significant religious or spiritual services, and culturally relevant events that foster a sense of belonging and connection feasible.
• Many patients have successfully addressed experiencing sudden flashes of light or floaters in their vision with Dr. Ghobrial's support. This often leads to feeling deeply understood, consistently validated, and never dismissed by Dr. Ghobrial when discussing sensitive, personal, or emotionally difficult health topics or life circumstances and the ability to fully participate in effectively and independently managing their personal budget, complex financial responsibilities, investment decisions, or household bill payments with sustained mental acuity and organizational skill once more.
• If feeling overwhelmed by stress from work or family life and needing someone to talk to about coping strategies is preventing you from successfully pursuing further formal education, challenging vocational training programs, or self-directed learning initiatives to achieve important personal growth objectives or significant professional aspirations, Dr. Ghobrial can help. The aim is to achieve feeling truly empowered with the specific knowledge, practical skills, and continuous ongoing support from Dr. Ghobrial to make sustainable, positive, and healthier lifestyle choices regarding their nutrition, optimal physical activity levels, restorative sleep patterns, and effective stress management techniques through personalized family medicine care.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Ghobrial, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Ghobrial practices at Parkdale Queen West CHC, located in the Letitia Heights, Sunnidale neighborhood of Barrie. The clinic is conveniently located near the Commercial Corridor and is accessible via Barrie Transit. Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON?

Generally, you don't need a referral to see a family doctor in Ontario if they are accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario, your local health unit's website, or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario may be helpful in your search. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see specialists.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a family doctor like Dr. Ghobrial?

Having continuity of care with Dr. Ghobrial means that she is your consistent point of contact for your health needs over many years. This long-term relationship allows Dr. Ghobrial to understand the nuances of your health, track changes over time, and provide care that is personalized and proactive. It improves communication, reduces duplication of tests, helps in managing chronic conditions more effectively, and fosters a stronger doctor-patient partnership, all leading to better overall health management.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by OHIP for eligible Ontario residents with a valid health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with Parkdale Queen West CHC if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

Does Dr. Ghobrial at Parkdale Queen West CHC offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr. Ghobrial at Parkdale Queen West CHC offers virtual (video) and/or phone appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, prescription renewals for ongoing medications (not controlled substances), or for certain mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new problems, or situations requiring a physical examination will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Ghobrial if a virtual appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with Parkdale Queen West CHC regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a family doctor like Dr. Ghobrial?

Preventative care with Dr. Ghobrial focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious or cause symptoms. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (periodic health exams), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests, mammograms, colon cancer screening, PSA discussions), immunizations (flu shots, travel vaccines, routine boosters), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The primary goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early when they are most treatable, and promote your long-term health and well-being.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON who is accepting new patients?

To find a family doctor in Ontario who is accepting new patients, check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website (they often have a 'Find a Doctor' tool). You can also register with Health Care Connect in Ontario. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or contact local community health centres or new patient clinics. Finding a family doctor may take time and effort.

I have multiple health problems. How does Dr. Ghobrial handle complex care?

If you have several health issues, Dr. Ghobrial is well-equipped to be your central point of care. Her role includes understanding how your different conditions and their treatments might impact each other, helping you to navigate the healthcare system, and ensuring that all aspects of your health are considered in your overall treatment plan. Dr. Ghobrial will work with you and other specialists to manage your health comprehensively.

Parkdale Queen West CHC
49 High Street
Barrie, ON, L4N 5J4

Phone: (705) 722-3443

Dr. Amal Talaat Wissa Ghobrial is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario) in ON and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Registration Number: 117370

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Ghobrial-Amal-Talaat-Wissa/0326913-117370

Family doctors like Dr. Ghobrial are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.