Description
About Dr. George William Zimakas
With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. George William Zimakas serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Niagara Falls, ON, he provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. His dedication is rooted in a genuine commitment to the health and well-being of his community, ensuring that each patient receives attentive and personalized medical attention. Dr. Zimakas adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), maintaining the highest level of professionalism and ethical practice.
Dr. Zimakas graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 1993 (Canada). He completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized certifications in Geriatric Medicine, equipping him with the expertise necessary to address complex health issues in adult and senior populations.
His clinical philosophy is warm, community-focused, and patient-centered. Committed to serving Niagara Falls and its surrounding communities, Dr. Zimakas speaks both English and French, ensuring clear and compassionate communication with his diverse patient population. His approach emphasizes holistic care, fostering trust and long-term health relationships with those he serves.
Conditions Managed by Dr. George William Zimakas
Dr. Zimakas provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
- Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
- Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- 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.
Dr. Zimakas 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.
Clinical Services Offered by Dr. George William Zimakas
- 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.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
- Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA): A holistic, multidimensional evaluation tailored to older adults, assessing medical conditions, functional ability, cognition, mood, nutrition, social support, and medication use.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Zimakas. 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. Zimakas'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).
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Zimakas's practice is located in the vibrant downtown Niagara Falls, near the Queen Street area, within the community-friendly neighborhood close to Great Wolf Lodge. The location offers convenient access via Niagara Region Transit (NRT), making it easy for patients to reach appointments. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Zimakas? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Zimakas 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. Zimakas. 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 should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?
- Dr. Zimakas's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.
- Is Dr. Zimakas affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Zimakas may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Niagara Falls area hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Zimakas as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.
Contact & Licensing Information
Unit 301, 5803 Main Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2G 5Z6
Phone: (905) 371-1117 | Fax: (905) 371-9986
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Zimakas 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/Zimakas-George-William/0155157-72944