About
Dr. Janis Lorraine Nicholson, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Stratford, ON, she serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, ethical, and comprehensive care. Dr. Nicholson provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, emphasizing holistic management tailored to each individual's needs.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine in 1999, Canada, and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. Her certifications include board eligibility in internal medicine and specialized training in geriatric medicine, equipping her with the expertise to manage complex adult health issues effectively.
Driven by a warm and community-oriented philosophy, Dr. Nicholson is committed to serving the residents of Stratford and nearby areas. She speaks English fluently and is dedicated to fostering trusting relationships with her patients, emphasizing compassionate, patient-centered care that respects individual dignity and cultural diversity.
Dr. Nicholson provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
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.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
Dr. Nicholson 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.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- 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.
- Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
- 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.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Nicholson. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Nicholson'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. Nicholson's practice is situated near the central Stratford neighborhood, accessible from key points of interest such as Stratford General Hospital and local community centers. The location is easily reachable via public transit options available throughout Stratford, making it convenient for patients from surrounding areas. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenience for those arriving by car.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Nicholson? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Nicholson 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. Nicholson. 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. Nicholson'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.
- What exactly does an Internist (Internal Medicine Specialist) do?
- An Internist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing complex diseases primarily in adults. They are experts in managing conditions affecting multiple organ systems (Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders, Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2)), handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.
- When should someone be referred to an Internist or Geriatrician?
- Referrals are typically appropriate for adults with complex diagnostic challenges, poorly controlled chronic diseases (like advanced Thyroid Disorders or Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes), multiple interacting medical conditions, or unexplained symptoms. For older adults, referrals are common for geriatric syndromes such as falls, memory decline, frailty, or complex medication management (Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss). Your family doctor can best determine if a specialist consultation is needed.
46 General Hospital Drive
Stratford, ON N5A 2Y6
Phone: (519) 271-2120 | Fax: (519) 272-8199
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Nicholson 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/Nicholson-Janis-Lorraine/0206189-79951