Dr. Drew Martin Girard – Family Doctor | Niagara Falls, ON

Dr. Drew Martin Girard is a dedicated Family Doctor, committed to providing comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families of all ages. Practicing at a family medical practice in Niagara Falls, ON, he is a trusted primary care provider in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, ethical, and effective care. The clinic offers a welcoming environment focused on accessible, continuous, and comprehensive primary healthcare for residents of Niagara Falls and surrounding areas.

Dr. Girard earned his Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. Following this, he completed a residency program in Family Medicine, leading to certification by the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP), or an equivalent recognized body. He has been practicing as a Family Doctor with over 38 years of experience in family medicine since 1986. He is recognized as a CFPC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), demonstrating his expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development.

His professional philosophy centers on building long-term relationships with patients and their families to provide personalized, continuous care. Dr. Girard emphasizes a patient-centered approach, involving individuals in decisions about their health and treatment plans. He is dedicated to evidence-based medicine and lifelong learning, ensuring that his patients benefit from the latest clinical guidelines and best practices. Promoting preventative health and wellness, he strives to help patients achieve their best possible health outcomes. He advocates for patient needs and coordinates care within the broader healthcare system, all while offering compassionate communication and care in English. Dr. Girard’s primary goal is to support the health and well-being of the Niagara Falls community through accessible and comprehensive primary care.

Dr. Drew Girard provides comprehensive care for a wide range of health concerns, including:

Chronic Disease Management

Dr. Girard manages focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, optimizing medications, supporting self-management, and improving overall quality of life.

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Regular monitoring, lifestyle counseling (diet, exercise, sodium reduction), and medication management to control blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol and Triglycerides): Screening, diagnosis, and management of abnormal lipid profiles to prevent heart disease and stroke.
• Osteoarthritis and Common Rheumatic Conditions: Management of joint pain, stiffness, and functional limitations due to osteoarthritis or conditions like gout or fibromyalgia (initial management).

Women's Health and Maternity Care

Dr. Girard manages family doctors with these skills offer accessible and continuous care for women and new families.

• Family Planning and Contraception: Prescription and management of chosen contraceptive methods.
• Prenatal and Postnatal Care (Low-Risk Obstetrics): Postpartum care for mother and baby, including breastfeeding support and adjustment to parenthood.
• Routine Gynecological Care (Pap Tests, Breast Health): Providing education on breast self-awareness and facilitating mammogram referrals.

Acute and Common Illnesses

Dr. Girard manages includes respiratory infections like colds and flu, ear and throat infections, urinary tract infections, minor skin conditions, and common digestive upsets.

• Upper Respiratory Infections (e.g., Common Cold, Influenza, Sinusitis): Management of symptoms such as cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, fever, and body aches due to viral or bacterial infections.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Uncomplicated Cystitis: Urine testing to confirm infection and guide antibiotic choice.
• Common Skin Conditions (e.g., Eczema Flare-ups, Minor Burns, Impetigo, Fungal Infections): Diagnosis and management of various acute skin rashes, infections like athlete's foot or ringworm, and minor burns or wounds.

This list is not exhaustive. For a complete assessment of your health needs, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Drew Girard.

• Coordination of Specialist Care and Referrals: Serving as the central point for navigating the healthcare system, including making appropriate referrals to medical specialists and allied health professionals.
• Comprehensive Health Examinations (All Ages): Assessing overall health status, identifying potential risk factors, and creating personalized wellness strategies.
• Preventative Health Screenings and Immunizations: Offering and arranging age-appropriate preventative services like cancer screenings (Pap tests, mammography referrals, colorectal cancer screening discussions, prostate health discussions).
• Mental Health Support and Initial Management: Providing assessment, counseling, and initial treatment for common mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, and insomnia.
• Low-Risk Maternity and Newborn Care: Comprehensive postnatal care for both mother and newborn, including breastfeeding support.
• Chronic Disease Management and Prevention: Developing individualized care plans, monitoring disease progression, optimizing medications, and coordinating with specialists.

Note: This list provides an overview of common services. Your specific care plan will be determined after a consultation with Dr. Girard.

All family medicine services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) and relevant provincial clinical practice guidelines. Patients typically do not require a referral to see a family doctor if the practice is accepting new patients.

Dr. Girard practices at a welcoming family medical clinic situated in the heart of Niagara Falls, Ontario. The clinic is conveniently located near the bustling Clifton Hill Tourist Area and Fallsview District, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. The facility is just a short distance from the iconic Skylon Tower, offering spectacular views and a landmark in the neighborhood. Patients can access the clinic via Niagara Region Transit (NRT), with nearby bus stops providing easy public transportation options. The clinic is designed for patient comfort and accessibility, featuring on-site or street parking that is usually available to ensure a hassle-free visit. The practice offers a comprehensive range of primary care services in a friendly, accessible environment, committed to supporting the health needs of the Niagara Falls community.

Do I typically need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Girard as my family doctor?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another physician to become a patient of a Family Doctor like Dr. Girard, provided their practice is currently accepting new patients. You can usually contact the clinic directly to inquire about their registration process. You can reach the clinic at (905) 356-8500.

What exactly is a Family Doctor like Dr. Girard?

Dr. Girard is a Family Doctor, your main partner in health. He is trained to care for most health needs of your entire family, from babies to grandparents, focusing on holistic well-being, disease prevention, and managing ongoing health conditions. A Family Doctor provides comprehensive and continuous healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and a wide spectrum of health issues.

How can I schedule an appointment to see Dr. Girard?

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Girard, please call the clinic office during their regular business hours. The clinic's administrative staff will assist you in finding a convenient appointment time. Some clinics may also offer online booking options, which you can inquire about. You can reach the clinic at (905) 356-8500.

What are some of the most common health problems Dr. Girard treats?

As a Family Doctor, Dr. Girard frequently cares for patients with conditions like hypertension, type 2 diabetes, common infections (e.g., strep throat, bronchitis), musculoskeletal issues (e.g., back pain, joint pain), anxiety, depression, as well as performing well-child visits, women's health check-ups, and offering lifestyle and mental wellness advice. A Family Doctor provides comprehensive and continuous healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and a wide spectrum of health issues.

When is it appropriate to see a Family Doctor like Dr. Girard?

A visit to Dr. Girard is suitable for almost all non-emergency health issues. This includes regular physical exams, vaccinations, addressing new symptoms, managing long-term health problems, and seeking guidance on lifestyle changes. They are your first point of contact for navigating the healthcare system.

If I need specialized medical care, how does Dr. Girard help?

Dr. Girard serves as the main coordinator for your healthcare journey. Should you need specialized treatment, he will determine the most suitable type of specialist for your needs, issue the referral, and ensure a seamless transfer of relevant medical history. Following your specialist consultation, Dr. Girard will typically discuss the findings and integrate the recommendations into your ongoing care plan.

Are services provided by Dr. Girard covered by my provincial health insurance?

Most essential medical services from Dr. Girard, including consultations for health issues, routine examinations, and chronic disease management, are covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Some services, like certain medical forms for third parties or cosmetic procedures, may not be covered. Most medically necessary services from a Family Doctor, like office visits for check-ups or sickness, are covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Services not typically covered include some medical forms (e.g., for insurance, work, or travel), cosmetic procedures, and some non-preventative services. It's always best to inquire with Dr. Girard's clinic about any potential fees for non-covered services.

Unit 1550, 6453 Morrison Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7H1

Office Phone: (905) 356-8500 | Office Fax: (905) 356-1367

Dr. Girard is a licensed Family Doctor regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in Ontario. Patients typically do not require a referral to see Dr. Girard if the clinic is accepting new patients. Services are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. Girard's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Girard-Drew-Martin/0040393-54369