About
With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. David Norman Fisman serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Toronto, ON, he provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, dedicated to serving adults, including seniors, in the community. His practice is committed to upholding the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring quality and safety in every aspect of patient care.
Dr. Fisman graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1994, in Canada. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized fellowships in Geriatric Medicine. His advanced certifications reflect his dedication to continuous learning and excellence in his field, enabling him to offer expert, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s needs.
He adopts a warm and community-focused approach to medicine, emphasizing compassionate care and active engagement with his patients. Fluent in English and French, Dr. Fisman values building trusting relationships with the diverse Toronto community he serves. His clinical philosophy centers on holistic, patient-centered care that promotes independence, well-being, and quality of life for older adults and the broader adult population.
Dr. Fisman 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.
- 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.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- 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.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
Dr. Fisman 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.
- Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- 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.
- Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
- Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Fisman. 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. Fisman'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. Fisman’s practice is located in the vibrant Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto, within the Clarington Family Health Organization (FHO). The clinic is conveniently situated near the MaRS Discovery District, making it easily accessible for patients from across the city. The location is well-connected via TTC subway lines, streetcars, and bus routes, ensuring public transportation options are readily available. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available at the site for those arriving by car. Metered street parking is also available nearby for added convenience.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Fisman? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Fisman 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. Fisman. 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 the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?
- While diagnosing and managing diseases like Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2) or Chronic Respiratory Diseases is crucial, Dr. Fisman also places significant emphasis on maintaining or improving daily function and quality of life, especially for older adults. The goal is often to help patients remain as independent and active as possible, addressing issues like mobility, self-care, and participation in meaningful activities.
- 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.
- 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. Fisman, 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.
- What happens after the initial consultation?
- After your assessment, Dr. Fisman 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. Fisman 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.
Clarington FHO
Suite 3200, 200 Elizabeth Street, Eaton Wing
Toronto, ON M5G 2C4
Phone: (416) 340-3183 | Fax: (416) 340-3357
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Fisman 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/Fisman-David-Norman/0062777-75974