Dr. Grant James Stotts – Neurologist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Grant James Stotts is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at St. Michael's Hospital in Ottawa, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive neurological care for a wide range of conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based treatment.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Calgary in Canada and has been practicing as a Neurologist since 1999, accumulating over 25 years of clinical experience. Dr. Stotts is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his advanced training and expertise in neurological medicine.

Driven by a commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Stotts adopts a holistic approach to neurological health, emphasizing thorough evaluation, evidence-based interventions, and ongoing patient education and support. He is dedicated to helping adult patients in Ottawa navigate complex neurological conditions with compassion and professionalism. All consultations are conducted in English, with a focus on clear communication and individualized treatment planning.

Dr. Grant Stotts addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare inflammatory demyelinating condition of the central nervous system, typically following an infection or vaccination.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
• Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.

Neuromuscular Diseases

• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-induced, Idiopathic): Damage to or disease affecting nerves, which may impair sensation, movement, gland or organ function, or other aspects of health.
• Muscular Dystrophies (e.g., Duchenne, Becker, Myotonic Dystrophy): A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Grant Stotts.

• Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Stotts for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Located within St. Michael's Hospital, Dr. Stotts's practice resides in Ottawa's vibrant Hintonburg neighborhood, near the Civic Hospital and Westboro East district. The hospital is easily accessible via public transit, including OC Transpo's O-Train LRT and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible and offers parking options at or near the premises. Patients can expect a welcoming environment designed to support individuals and families navigating neurological health concerns in a central, accessible location that serves as a key medical hub for specialized neurological care in Ottawa.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Stotts, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Stotts, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Stotts's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Stotts, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Stotts for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

What are common diagnostic tests in Neurology?

Common tests ordered or interpreted by a neurologist include: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans to visualize the brain and spinal cord; Electroencephalogram (EEG) to record brain electrical activity (often for seizures); Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to assess nerve and muscle function; Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap) to analyze cerebrospinal fluid; and various blood tests to look for infections, inflammation, or genetic markers. Dr. Stotts will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.

What does a Neurologist like Dr. Stotts specialize in?

A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Stotts is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.

How does Dr. Stotts manage Parkinson's disease?

Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Stotts will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.

When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?

You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Stotts if needed.

St. Michael's Hospital
17th Floor Cardinal Carter Wing, 1053 Carling Avenue, Department of Psychiatry
Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9

Phone: (613) 798-5555

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Stotts is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Stotts for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Stotts-Grant-James/0056725-68313