About
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Craig Douglas Ainsworth offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Hamilton, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on evidence-based, patient-centered care. He provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His role encompasses managing complex health conditions in adults, including older adults and seniors, ensuring a thorough and tailored approach to each patient's needs.
Dr. Ainsworth graduated with his Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 2005 in Canada. He completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including specialization in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, obtaining key certifications necessary for independent practice and ongoing professional development. His training ensures he is well-equipped to handle diverse and complex medical cases involving adult and geriatric populations.
His clinical philosophy is grounded in an evidence-based and informative approach, emphasizing thorough assessment, personalized treatment plans, and patient education. Dr. Ainsworth is committed to serving the Hamilton community, speaking English fluently, and maintaining a practice that prioritizes safety, accuracy, and compassionate care.
Dr. Ainsworth provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
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.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
- Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
Dr. Ainsworth 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).
- Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Ainsworth. 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. Ainsworth'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. Ainsworth's practice is located in the Hamilton North End, within the Beasley neighborhood. The clinic is situated in close proximity to Ross Memorial Hospital, with convenient access to the Delta Area and Hamilton General Hospital. Patients can reach the location easily via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Ainsworth? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Ainsworth 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. Ainsworth. 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. Craig Douglas Ainsworth provide advice on healthy aging?
- Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. Ainsworth 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. Craig Douglas Ainsworth 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. Ainsworth 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. He 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 (Thyroid Disorders, Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)), handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.
Ross Memorial Hospital
237 Barton Street East
Hamilton, ON L8L 2X2
Phone: (905) 521-2100 | Fax: (905) 577-8267
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Ainsworth 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/Ainsworth-Craig-Douglas/0219900-82435