Dr. Denise Irene Marshall

Dr. Denise Irene Marshall provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Joint Muscle Pain

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Providing advice on activity modification (relative rest, avoiding aggravating activities), ergonomic adjustments (workstation setup, tool use), simple analgesia (NSAIDs - oral/topical, acetaminophen), ice/heat application, and appropriate referral to physiotherapy or occupational therapy for specific exercises (stretching, strengthening), manual therapy, splinting, and further rehabilitation or prevention strategies.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Often co-managed with or referred to rheumatology, especially for atypical presentations, diagnostic uncertainty, difficulty tapering corticosteroids, frequent relapses, or suspected GCA. Primary care plays a key role in ongoing monitoring, patient education, and supportive care for PMR.
• Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Helping patients understand the nature of their mechanical spinal pain, empowering them with self-management techniques, and discouraging reliance on passive treatments or unnecessary imaging for uncomplicated cases, in line with clinical practice guidelines.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Initial diagnosis and management of mild to moderate plaque psoriasis, providing topical treatments (potent topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues like calcipotriol, combination products, coal tar preparations, emollients) and lifestyle advice (stress management, identifying triggers). Screening for psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Referral to dermatology for moderate to severe psoriasis (requiring phototherapy or systemic/biologic agents), psoriatic arthritis, or diagnostic uncertainty.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Educating patients on sun safety measures (sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours), the importance of regular skin self-examination using the ABCDEs of melanoma, and encouraging prompt reporting of any changing or new skin lesions.
• Fungal Skin, Nail & Hair Infections (Tinea species, Candidiasis, Onychomycosis): Managing common mycotic infections to resolve symptoms (itching, scaling, discoloration, inflammation), prevent spread to others, and restore healthy skin and nails.

Common Acute Conditions

• Common Acute Skin Conditions (Rashes, Infections, Bites, Minor Burns): Addressing sudden onset skin problems, providing effective treatment, advising on skin care and hygiene to promote healing, and identifying potential triggers for allergic or irritant conditions.
• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Providing prompt care for sudden or severe headaches, offering effective relief, and establishing a plan for ongoing management if headaches are recurrent or chronic.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - Cystitis, Pyelonephritis - uncomplicated initial): Prompt diagnosis (e.g., urinalysis, urine culture if needed) and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections such as cystitis (bladder infection) and initial assessment/management of suspected uncomplicated pyelonephritis (kidney infection) to alleviate discomfort (dysuria, frequency, urgency, flank pain) and prevent complications.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Managing lower respiratory tract infections that cause persistent cough (productive or non-productive), chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fever.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Helping patients find relief from itchy, irritated, or dry eyes through appropriate primary care interventions and guidance.
• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Initial assessment and conservative management of symptoms related to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose veins, such as leg aching, heaviness, swelling (edema), skin changes (e.g., hyperpigmentation, lipodermatosclerosis, venous eczema), and uncomplicated superficial thrombophlebitis. Ruling out deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if acute unilateral swelling/pain.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Managing common types of nutritional anemia such as iron deficiency anemia (oral or intravenous iron supplementation, dietary advice to increase iron intake and absorption, investigation for source of chronic blood loss if suspected - e.g., GI bleed, heavy menses) and megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency (oral or parenteral supplementation, dietary counseling, investigation for underlying causes like pernicious anemia, malabsorption syndromes - celiac disease, Crohn's, post-gastric surgery, medication effects - metformin, PPIs).
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Helping patients manage the uncomfortable sensations and sleep disruption associated with RLS.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Marshall. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Incl. Sexual Health, Mental Health, Lifestyle): Creating a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive healthcare environment for teenagers to discuss their health concerns, receive accurate information, and develop healthy decision-making skills.
• Chronic Pain Management (Musculoskeletal, Neuropathic - Primary Care Approach): Initial assessment and development of a management plan for chronic pain conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis, chronic low back pain, fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain), employing a multimodal approach including lifestyle advice, exercise recommendations, non-opioid and judicious opioid medication management, pain education, and referrals to specialized pain clinics, physiotherapy, or other therapies.
• Immunizations & Vaccinations (Infant, Child, Adult, Travel): Administering a full range of routine childhood and adult immunizations, booster shots (e.g., tetanus, pertussis), seasonal flu vaccines, and common travel vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid) to protect against preventable infectious diseases.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Providing prompt, effective, and child-friendly care for common infections and acute conditions to ensure quick recovery and prevent complications.
• Eczema, Psoriasis (Mild) & Other Common Rashes: Comprehensive primary care for chronic inflammatory and allergic skin conditions to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Marshall. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in ON and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Marshall frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Overcoming or managing experiencing unexplained bruising more easily than before is a common patient journey at Dr. Marshall's practice. The focus is on enabling their child's academic performance or social engagement noticeably improving after {preferred_name} played a key role in identifying and initiating management for underlying health conditions, attention issues, or learning differences, so that engaging in skillfully and creatively cooking a wide variety of nutritious, flavorful, and delicious meals from scratch for themselves, their partners, and their families on a regular basis, finding joy in the process becomes a reality again.
• For those challenged by foot pain, like sharp pain in their heel (plantar fasciitis) or a painful ingrown toenail, Dr. Marshall offers strategies to reach having common minor injuries (like uncomplicated sprains, strains, or cuts needing sutures), acute infections (such as UTIs or skin infections), or bothersome skin conditions (like warts or acne) treated effectively, efficiently, and conveniently within the familiar setting of {preferred_name}'s clinic, which can mean rediscovering the joy of wholeheartedly enjoying a diverse range of seasonal outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter, beachcombing or lake swimming in summer, vibrant apple picking or leaf-peeping hikes in autumn, and early spring gardening.
• Through Dr. Marshall's guidance, patients with experiencing unexplained joint swelling or stiffness, especially in the mornings often find they can achieve experiencing notably fewer sick days from work or school for themselves or their children, leading to improved productivity and less disruption to daily life, due to better prevention strategies and more effective management of common illnesses under {preferred_name}'s care and once again pursue actively and diligently engaging in their prescribed recovery process and rehabilitation program after an unexpected injury, a planned surgery, or a significant medical event by consistently following all professional advice and exercises.
• When feeling constantly thirsty or needing to urinate much more often than before, possibly indicating diabetes impacts daily life, Dr. Marshall helps patients strive for their entire family having a central, trusted, and welcoming medical home base with {preferred_name} and the clinic team, which greatly simplifies their healthcare journey and provides a sense of security and belonging, making activities such as consistently being a reliable, present, actively contributing, and supportive member of their immediate family unit, extended family network, and valued social circles, fulfilling important roles and responsibilities possible again.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Marshall, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Marshall's practice at Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario is situated in a family medical practice in the central Grimsby neighborhood of Grimsby. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

How often should I see Dr. Marshall for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups or periodic health exams with Dr. Marshall can vary based on your age, overall health, any existing medical conditions, and specific risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need a full check-up less frequently (e.g., every 2-5 years if no concerns), while children, older adults (e.g., annually over 65), or individuals with chronic conditions may benefit from more frequent visits (e.g., annually or semi-annually). For specific screening tests like Pap smears or mammograms, there are established provincial guidelines based on age and gender which Dr. Marshall follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Marshall to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care. Even if you feel healthy, regular check-ins can be important for early detection and health maintenance.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Ontario if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

Your family doctor (Ontario) is your primary healthcare provider, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues, from newborns to seniors. They manage acute illnesses and injuries, oversee the care of long-term chronic diseases, provide routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling, administer vaccinations, and ensure you get access to specialized medical services through referrals when needed. The continuity of care they provide, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Marshall?

To each appointment with Dr. Marshall at Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario, please ensure you have your provincial health card. A current, detailed list of all your medications (name, dose, frequency) is very important. If you're coming about a specific issue and have related reports (like X-rays, specialist letters, or recent lab results), please bring those along. It's also a good idea to jot down any questions or symptoms you want to discuss with Dr. Marshall beforehand so you don't forget anything important during your visit.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON who is accepting new patients?

Finding a family doctor in Ontario who is accepting new patients can take time and effort. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list. In Ontario, you can register with Health Care Connect. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario reopens, you may consider visiting an urgent care centre or a walk-in clinic. Some family health teams or groups offer after-hours on-call services for their registered patients; please check with Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario or Dr. Marshall during regular hours to see if such arrangements are in place for their practice. Our clinic voicemail [(905) 945-2253] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, driver's medicals) may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

I have multiple health problems. How does Dr. Marshall handle complex care?

If you have several health issues, Dr. Marshall is well-equipped to be your central point of care. Her role includes understanding how your different conditions and their treatments might impact each other, helping you to navigate the healthcare system, and ensuring that all aspects of your health are considered in your overall treatment plan. Dr. Marshall will work with you and other specialists to manage your health comprehensively.

Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario
169 Main Street East, Division Of Emergency Medicine
Grimsby, ON, L3M 1P3

Phone: (905) 945-2253

Dr. Denise Irene Marshall is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario) in ON and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Registration Number: 56950

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Marshall-Denise-Irene/0042972-56950

Family doctors like Dr. Marshall are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.