About
Dr. Andrew Robert Frank is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic or hospital department in Ottawa, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring comprehensive and ethical neurological care. Dr. Frank provides expert management for a broad spectrum of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach is patient-centered, emphasizing thorough assessment and personalized treatment plans to support optimal nervous system health. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, fostering trust and clarity throughout the care process.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine in Canada. With over 19 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2005, Dr. Frank has developed a deep expertise in managing complex neurological cases. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development. His certifications affirm his qualifications and expertise in advanced neurological diagnostics and treatments.
Dr. Frank's clinical philosophy centers on providing compassionate, evidence-based care with a holistic approach to neurological health. He is dedicated to ongoing patient education and support, ensuring individuals understand their conditions and treatment options. Fluent in English, he strives to build strong, collaborative relationships with his patients in Ottawa, fostering an environment of trust and empowerment. His commitment is to deliver the highest standard of neurological care tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Dr. Andrew Frank addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
- Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases
- Carotid Artery Stenosis (Symptomatic): Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, increasing stroke risk if it causes neurological symptoms.
- Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, leading to brain cell damage.
- Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST): A blood clot in the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain.
Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders
- Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
- Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
- Generalized Epilepsy (e.g., Tonic-Clonic, Absence Seizures): Seizures that affect both sides of the brain from the onset, leading to various types of convulsions or alterations in consciousness.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Andrew Frank.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
- Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Frank for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Frank practices at a neurology clinic within a hospital or specialized medical facility located in Ottawa’s Lower Town, Sandy Hill East, near the vibrant ByWard Market. The setting is conveniently accessible via Ottawa City Hall, with multiple public transit options including OC Transpo (O-Train LRT and Bus). The facility is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available with metered street parking and nearby lots, making it convenient for patients to attend appointments without hassle.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Frank, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Frank, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Frank's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Frank, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Frank for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?
- You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Frank if needed.
- What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?
- For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. Frank focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.
Suite 309, 43 Bruyere Street
Ottawa, ON K1N 5C8
Phone: (613) 562-6322 | Fax: (613) 562-6013
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Frank is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Frank for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Frank-Andrew-Robert/0172311-74998