Dr. Denise Hok-Yun Tam – Internist / Geriatrician | Scarborough, ON

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Denise Hok-Yun Tam serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Scarborough, ON, she provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care to adult patients, including seniors. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, evidence-based medical services.

Dr. Tam graduated with a Medical Degree from Northwestern University in 2002 in the United States. She has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized certifications in Geriatric Medicine. Her training enables her to address complex health conditions with a thorough, multidisciplinary approach, emphasizing patient-centered care.

Her clinical philosophy is grounded in the principles of evidence-based medicine and patient education. Dr. Tam is committed to serving the Scarborough community by offering personalized, comprehensive care. She is fluent in Cantonese and English, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population and ensuring clarity in diagnosis, treatment, and health management.

Dr. Tam provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• 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.
• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• 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.
• Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.

Dr. Tam 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.

• Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
• 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.
• Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• 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. Tam. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Tam'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. Tam's practice is located in areas near the central Scarborough neighborhood of Scarborough, providing convenient access for local residents. The practice is easily reachable by public transit, including buses and the Scarborough Transit Line, facilitating accessible healthcare for busy adults and seniors. The surrounding community features local points of interest such as Scarborough Town Centre and Centennial College. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Tam? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Tam 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. Tam. 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 Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization or Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is crucial, Dr. Tam 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 (Delirium Prevention & Management), and participation in meaningful activities.

78 Corporate Drive
Scarborough, ON M1H 3G4

Phone: (416) 279-0855 | Fax: (416) 279-0857

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Tam 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/Tam-Denise-HokYun/0252558-89869