With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Darren Dean Saunders serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in North Bay, ON, he provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, adhering strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His focus is on delivering evidence-based, patient-centred care to adults, including older adults and seniors, ensuring optimal health outcomes and quality of life.
Dr. Saunders graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1985, Canada. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and additional specialization in Geriatric Medicine. His certifications and ongoing professional development ensure he remains current with the latest clinical practices and guidelines.
His clinical philosophy is rooted in an evidence-based and informative approach, emphasizing thorough assessment, individualized treatment plans, and patient engagement. Dr. Saunders is committed to serving the North Bay community with integrity and compassion. He communicates fluently in English and values clear, respectful interactions with his patients and colleagues alike.
Dr. Saunders provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic 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.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
Dr. Saunders 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.
- Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
- Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
- Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Saunders. 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. Saunders'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. Saunders's practice is located in Downtown North Bay, within the Central neighborhood, conveniently situated in proximity to Northgate Shopping Centre and accessible via Highway 11/17. The clinic is situated within Sunnybrook Health Science Centre, offering easy access for patients. The location is served by North Bay Transit, providing public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Saunders? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Saunders 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. Saunders. 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.
- What happens after the initial consultation?
- After your assessment, Dr. Saunders will typically send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations to your referring physician. Depending on your specific situation and the reason for referral, Dr. Saunders may arrange follow-up appointments, order further tests, or transition care management back to your family doctor with specialist guidance. The plan will be discussed with you.
- What is the appointment cancellation policy?
- We understand that unforeseen circumstances arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24-48 hours notice so we can offer the time slot to another patient waiting for consultation. Failure to provide sufficient notice may result in a missed appointment fee (if applicable per clinic policy). Please contact the office directly to make changes.
- What should I bring to my first appointment?
- Please bring:
- Your provincial health card (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card).
- The referral letter if you have it.
- A complete list of ALL your current medications (prescriptions, over-the-counter, vitamins, herbs), including doses. Bringing the actual bottles/packaging is often very helpful.
- A list of your past medical history, surgeries, and known allergies.
- Any relevant medical reports, lab results, or imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI) reports you possess.
- A list of your specific questions or concerns for Dr. Saunders.
- How does Dr. Saunders communicate with my family doctor?
- Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Saunders 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.
Sunnybrook Health Science Centre
MG365, 50 College Drive
North Bay, ON P1B 0A4
Phone: (705) 978-1485 | Fax: (705) 476-2437
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Saunders 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/Saunders-Darren-Dean/0041546-55522