Dr. Heidi Christa Schmidt – Radiologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Heidi Christa Schmidt is a Radiologist specializing in the use of medical imaging to diagnose and sometimes treat diseases within the body. Practicing at medical facilities in Toronto, ON, she supports various clinical departments, ensuring accurate diagnostics with a patient-safety focused approach. Her services are provided in strict adherence to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), including her license number 77345. Dr. Schmidt's commitment to quality care ensures that every patient receives thorough and precise imaging interpretation to guide appropriate treatment decisions.

Dr. Schmidt graduated with a Medical Degree from Johannes Gutenberg University at Mainz in 1988 in Germany. She has been practicing as a specialist Radiologist for over 22 years, since 2002. She is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, reflecting her extensive training and expertise in radiology. Her clinical experience spans a broad spectrum of diagnostic imaging, enabling her to deliver comprehensive radiology services with a focus on patient safety and diagnostic accuracy.

Her philosophy centers on patient safety, diagnostic precision, and compassionate care. Dr. Schmidt is dedicated to providing accurate imaging interpretations within Toronto's diverse healthcare environment. She is fluent in English and German, facilitating effective communication with a wide range of patients and colleagues. Her commitment is to ensure that each patient receives safe, reliable, and timely radiological services to support optimal health outcomes.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Interpretation: Specialized analysis and reporting of MRI scans, providing detailed images of soft tissues, brain, spine, joints, abdomen, and pelvis without using ionizing radiation.
• Mammography and Breast Imaging Interpretation: Expert review and reporting of mammograms (including tomosynthesis/3D mammography) and breast ultrasound for cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up.
• Bone Densitometry (DEXA) Scan Interpretation: Analyzing DEXA scans to measure bone mineral density, assess osteoporosis risk, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan Interpretation: Detailed review and reporting of cross-sectional CT images for evaluating trauma, cancer staging, vascular disease, infections, and other complex conditions throughout the body.
• Ultrasound Interpretation (Sonography): Evaluation and reporting of diagnostic ultrasound images for assessing organs (e.g., liver, kidneys, thyroid, reproductive organs), blood flow, pregnancies, and musculoskeletal conditions.

Note: This list provides an overview of common radiology services. Dr. Schmidt interprets a wide range of medical imaging studies and/or performs procedures as indicated by your referring physician. Specific subspecialty services depend on the physician's focus and training.

All medical imaging services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Dr. Schmidt's practice is primarily based at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, located in the Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The facility is situated near Exhibition Place, making it easily accessible via TTC subway, streetcar, and bus routes. Patients can reach the center conveniently through public transportation, with multiple transit options available. Parking is available at the facility, and the environment is designed to accommodate all patients comfortably. The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Are imaging studies interpreted by Dr. Schmidt covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary diagnostic imaging studies interpreted by a Radiologist like Dr. Schmidt are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when prescribed by your referring physician and performed at an accredited medical facility. Some advanced or specialized interventional procedures may also be covered. It's always best to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the imaging clinic/hospital.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to have an imaging study interpreted by Dr. Schmidt?

Yes, almost all diagnostic imaging tests (like X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasounds) and interventional radiology procedures require a formal request or requisition from your family doctor, specialist, or other authorized healthcare provider. Dr. Schmidt provides expert interpretation of these physician-ordered studies.

Why might I need an injection of 'contrast' or 'dye' for my scan?

Contrast material (often called 'dye', though it's usually clear) is a special substance that can be injected intravenously (or sometimes taken orally or rectally) to help certain organs, blood vessels, or tissues stand out more clearly on imaging exams like CT or MRI. It can help Dr. Schmidt see abnormalities that might otherwise be hidden. Not all scans require contrast; it's used when it can provide important additional diagnostic information.

Is there general preparation needed before an imaging appointment?

Preparation varies significantly based on the type of imaging test. Some require fasting for several hours, others may need you to drink water for a full bladder, or avoid certain medications. You will receive specific instructions from the clinic or hospital when your appointment is scheduled. It's very important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the quality of your exam and your safety.

What does a Radiologist actually do? Do they take the pictures?

A Radiologist (like Dr. Schmidt) is a medical doctor who has completed extensive specialty training in interpreting all types of medical images (X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, etc.) to diagnose diseases and injuries. They provide a written report of their findings to your doctor. While skilled technologists operate the imaging equipment to take the pictures, the Radiologist is the expert physician who analyzes these images to provide a diagnosis. Some Radiologists (Interventional Radiologists) also perform image-guided minimally invasive procedures.

What is Interventional Radiology?

Interventional Radiology is a subspecialty of radiology where physicians use medical imaging (like X-ray, CT, ultrasound, MRI) to guide minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis (e.g., biopsies) or treatment of a wide range of conditions in nearly every organ system. These procedures are often alternatives to open surgery. Dr. Schmidt specializes in these image-guided procedures. She interprets diagnostic images that may lead to referral for such procedures.

Princess Margaret Cancer Center
16th floor, Rm16-757, 585 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 2N2

Phone: (416) 323-3422

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Schmidt is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Imaging services are typically provided based on referrals from other physicians.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Schmidt-Heidi-Christa/0188707-77345