Dr. Amaris Karin Sarah Balitsky – Internist / Geriatrician | Hamilton, ON

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

Dr. Balitsky graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 2013 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. Her certifications include board examinations and fellowships that demonstrate her expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development. She continually updates her knowledge to incorporate the latest evidence-based practices in her clinical approach.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes clear communication, patient-centered care, and education. Dr. Balitsky is dedicated to supporting her patients in achieving optimal health outcomes through comprehensive assessments, preventative strategies, and personalized treatment plans. She speaks English fluently and is committed to serving the Hamilton community with compassion and professionalism.

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

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• 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

• 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.
• 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.
• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
• Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.

Dr. Balitsky 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.

• Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment: In-depth evaluation for adults with complex, unclear, or multi-system medical conditions, involving detailed history, physical examination, and coordination of necessary investigations.
• Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
• Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Balitsky. 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. Balitsky'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. Balitsky's practice is located in the Westdale neighborhood of Hamilton, ON, within close proximity to the Ainslie Wood area near McMaster University. The clinic is situated within the LHSC Victoria Campus, providing easy access for patients in the community. The location is conveniently near Eastgate Square shopping centre and accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Balitsky 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. Balitsky. 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.

Can Dr. Amaris Karin Sarah Balitsky provide advice on healthy aging?

Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. Balitsky can discuss evidence-based strategies for healthy aging. This might include advice on appropriate exercise, nutrition, preventative health screenings, vaccinations, cognitive health maintenance, and managing chronic conditions effectively to promote longevity and well-being.

Does Dr. Amaris Karin Sarah Balitsky 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. Balitsky 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. She can provide information and facilitate these discussions.

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 (Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease), handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.

LHSC Victoria Campus
711 Concession St, Department of Emergency Medicine
Hamilton, ON L8S 2T2

Phone: (905) 521-2100

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Balitsky 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/Balitsky-Amaris-Karin-Sarah/0288924-100770