About
With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Bashar Salih serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Kitchener, ON, he provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, focusing on adult patients including seniors. His approach emphasizes thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plans to optimize health outcomes. Dr. Salih is committed to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice, adhering to the guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and ethical care for all his patients.
Dr. Salih graduated with a Medical Degree from Istanbul University in 2002 (Turkey). He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency and specialized certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. His training has equipped him with a broad skill set for managing complex adult health conditions and addressing the unique needs of older adults.
His clinical philosophy centers on providing professional and clinical excellence. He is dedicated to continuous learning and quality improvement, fostering a compassionate and respectful environment for his patients. Fluent in Arabic and English, Dr. Salih values effective communication to ensure his patients are well-informed and engaged in their care.
Dr. Salih provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Select Infectious & Inflammatory 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.
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
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.
- Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
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.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
Dr. Salih 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 Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
- 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.
- Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
- Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Salih. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, he provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Salih'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. Bashar Salih's practice is situated in downtown Kitchener, within the Cedar Hill neighborhood. The clinic is located inside the Group Health Centre, a prominent healthcare facility easily accessible to residents of Kitchener and surrounding communities. The location is near Forest Heights Community Library, making it convenient for patients in the area. Accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT) bus routes and the ION Light Rail, the clinic offers excellent public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Salih? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Salih 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. Salih. 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 a family member or friend accompany me to the appointment?
- Yes, absolutely. Patients are welcome to bring a family member, friend, or caregiver to their appointment for support, to help recall information, or to ask questions. Especially for complex discussions or if memory is a concern, having a second person present can be very beneficial.
- What should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?
- Dr. Salih's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.
- What typically happens during a first consultation?
- During your initial visit, Dr. Salih will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. He will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, he will discuss Dr. Salih's findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.
- Does Dr. Salih handle prescription refills?
- Generally, ongoing prescription refills should be managed through your family doctor (primary care provider). Dr. Salih will make initial recommendations or adjustments, but routine refills are best handled by your family doctor who manages your overall care, unless specific arrangements are made for certain specialized medications.
Group Health Centre
835 King Street West
Kitchener, ON N2G 1G3
Phone: (519) 749-4300 | Fax: (519) 749-4293
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Salih 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/Salih-Bashar/0276483-97026