About
Dr. Harold Bernard Borenstein is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in North York, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a patient-centered approach. He adheres to the high standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that all care delivered aligns with provincial regulations and best practices. Dr. Borenstein offers expert medical assessment and management tailored to adult and senior patients, emphasizing quality, safety, and holistic well-being.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1986, completing extensive post-graduate training in internal medicine and geriatrics. His certifications include diplomateship in internal medicine and geriatrics, reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and specialization.
With a professional and clinical philosophy, Dr. Borenstein is dedicated to evidence-based practice, compassionate patient engagement, and continuous learning. He speaks English fluently and is committed to serving the diverse population of North York with respect and integrity. His focus is on delivering thorough, individualized care to promote healthy aging and manage complex medical conditions effectively.
Dr. Borenstein provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
- Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
- 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 Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
Dr. Borenstein 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.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
- Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
- Coordination of Specialist Care: Acting as a central point of contact to help manage and coordinate input from various medical specialists for patients with multi-system diseases.
- Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Borenstein. 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. Borenstein'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. Borenstein's practice is located within the North York area, near the central North York neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated within The Toronto General Hospital, providing easy access for patients from surrounding communities. The location is close to local points of interest such as Yorkdale Shopping Centre and North York Civic Centre. It is well served by public transit, including bus and subway routes, facilitating accessible transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Borenstein? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Borenstein 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. Borenstein. 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 are typical wait times for an appointment?
- Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly depending on the urgency of the referral, the volume of requests, and Dr. Borenstein's availability. Our office prioritizes referrals based on medical need. We strive to see patients as promptly as possible and will contact you once the referral is processed to schedule an appointment. You can inquire about approximate wait times when booking.
- Can Dr. Harold Bernard Borenstein provide advice on healthy aging?
- Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. Borenstein can discuss evidence-based strategies for healthy aging. This might include advice on appropriate exercise, nutrition, preventative health screenings, vaccinations, cognitive health maintenance, and managing chronic conditions effectively to promote longevity and well-being.
The Toronto General Hospital
6 E N - 224, 2100 Finch Avenue West, Vascular Surgery Division
North York, ON M3N 2Z9
Phone: (416) 739-7558 | Fax: (416) 739-7601
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Borenstein 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/Borenstein-Harold-Bernard/0042751-56729