Dr. Ian Nelson Rhodes – Internist / Geriatrician | Ottawa, ON

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Ian Nelson Rhodes offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Ottawa, ON, he serves the surrounding communities, providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. Dr. Rhodes adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that his practice aligns with provincial regulations and best practices.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1984 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. His certifications include board certification in Internal Medicine, along with specialized training in geriatrics, which allows him to manage complex health conditions affecting adults and seniors effectively.

Driven by a clear and educational approach, Dr. Rhodes is committed to offering personalized, patient-centered care. He speaks both English and French fluently, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population. His clinical philosophy emphasizes thorough evaluation, patient education, and holistic management to optimize health outcomes and quality of life for his patients in Ottawa and beyond.

Dr. Rhodes provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
• Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
• Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
• Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
• Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.

Dr. Rhodes 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.

• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
• Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment: In-depth evaluation for adults with complex, unclear, or multi-system medical conditions, involving detailed history, physical examination, and coordination of necessary investigations.
• 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. Rhodes. 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. Rhodes'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. Rhodes's practice is located in the Overbrook, Castle Heights, and Vanier South neighborhoods of Ottawa. The clinic is situated within the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, conveniently close to Ottawa City Hall (Lisgar St entrance). The location is accessible via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and local bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Rhodes? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Rhodes 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. Rhodes. 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.

How does a Geriatrician's role differ?

A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss, and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Rhodes, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. He often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.

What is involved in a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)?

A CGA is a detailed evaluation specifically designed for older adults. It goes beyond standard medical checks to assess multiple domains including: medical conditions, medication review (polypharmacy), functional status (ability to perform daily tasks), mobility and fall risk, cognitive health (memory and thinking), mood (screening for depression/anxiety), nutrition, and social support systems. Dr. Rhodes uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan.

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Room 1129, 713 Montreal Road
Ottawa, ON K1K 0T2

Phone: (613) 746-4621

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rhodes 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/Rhodes-Ian-Nelson/0039852-53828