Dr. James Anthony Chiarotto – Internist / Geriatrician | Scarborough, ON

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. James Anthony Chiarotto offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Scarborough, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. His practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care.

Dr. Chiarotto graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1988 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. His certifications include certification in internal medicine from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and ongoing professional development.

He is dedicated to a professional and clinical approach, emphasizing thorough assessments and personalized treatment plans. Fluent in English, French, and Italian, Dr. Chiarotto values clear communication and strives to serve a diverse patient population in Scarborough. His clinical philosophy centers on holistic, evidence-based care aimed at improving health outcomes and quality of life for his patients.

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

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
• Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
• Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• 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.

Dr. Chiarotto 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.

• 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.
• Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
• Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Chiarotto. 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. Chiarotto'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. Chiarotto's practice is located in areas near the central Scarborough neighborhood of Scarborough. The location is accessible via local public transit options, including bus routes and subway connections. The surrounding community features points of interest such as Scarborough Town Centre and Scarborough Bluffs. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

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

Why is reviewing multiple medications (polypharmacy) important?

As people age or develop multiple health conditions, they often take many medications. Polypharmacy increases the risk of side effects, drug interactions, falls, confusion, and non-adherence. A careful review helps ensure each medication is truly necessary, effective, and safe, potentially leading to deprescribing (stopping unnecessary drugs) and simplifying the regimen.

Is Dr. Chiarotto affiliated with a specific hospital?

Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Chiarotto may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Toronto General Hospital, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, or other local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Chiarotto 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.

What typically happens during a first consultation?

During your initial visit, Dr. Chiarotto will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. He will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, he will discuss his findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.

How long should I expect my appointment to last?

Initial consultations with Dr. Chiarotto are comprehensive and typically require more time, often ranging from 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical history and concerns. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter. We recommend allowing ample time for your visit, including check-in and potential waiting periods.

Suite 1, 2863 Ellesmere Road
Scarborough, ON M1E 5E9

Phone: (416) 284-8131 | Fax: (416) 281-7228

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Chiarotto 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/Chiarotto-James-Anthony/0045351-59329