As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Blair Montgomery Bowker offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in North Bay, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. Dr. Bowker adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, ethical medical practice. His role involves managing complex health conditions in adult and senior populations, emphasizing thorough assessment and individualized treatment planning.
Dr. Bowker graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry in 1973. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including specialty certification in Internal Medicine and additional qualifications in Geriatric Medicine. His education and ongoing professional development enable him to stay current with advances in adult and geriatric healthcare, ensuring patients receive evidence-based and comprehensive medical services.
Committed to providing professional and clinical care, Dr. Bowker speaks English fluently. He prioritizes a patient-centered approach, fostering respectful and effective communication with his patients and their families. His dedication to the North Bay community is reflected in his focus on improving health outcomes and enhancing quality of life for his patients across the adult lifespan.
Dr. Bowker provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
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.
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
- 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 Chronic Diseases
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
- 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.
Dr. Bowker 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.
- Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
- Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
- Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Bowker. 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. Bowker'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. Bowker's practice is located in Downtown North Bay, within the Central neighborhood, offering convenient access for patients in the region. The facility is situated within Belleville General Hospital, providing seamless integration with hospital-based services. Patients can enjoy proximity to the Lake Nipissing Waterfront and the Chief Commanda II Dock, enhancing accessibility for community engagement. The clinic is accessible via North Bay Transit, ensuring easy transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Bowker? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Bowker 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. Bowker. 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.
- Is Dr. Bowker affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Bowker may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at North Bay hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Bowker as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.
- How does Dr. Blair Montgomery Bowker communicate with my family doctor?
- Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Bowker will send a comprehensive consultation letter outlining the assessment findings, diagnosis (if established), and treatment recommendations. This ensures your family doctor is fully informed and can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.
- How does a Geriatrician's role differ?
- A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss, and polypharmacy. Dr. Bowker, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. He often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.
Belleville General Hospital
1221 Algonquin Drive
North Bay, ON P1B 4Y3
Phone: (705) 476-1223 | Fax: (705) 476-3723
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Bowker 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/Bowker-Blair-Montgomery/0027510-32333