Dr. Jeffrey Barrett Joseph Schachter – Neurologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Jeffrey Barrett Joseph Schachter is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton in Toronto, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His practice adheres to the rigorous standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate neurological care.

Dr. Schachter graduated with a Medical Degree from the International American University College of Medicine in Saint Lucia. Since 2020, he has accumulated over four years of experience as a Neurologist, honing his expertise in neurological diagnosis and management. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his adherence to high professional standards and ongoing commitment to medical excellence.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, emphasizing a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Schachter is dedicated to evidence-based practice, ongoing patient education, and providing ongoing support for individuals navigating complex neurological conditions. He provides care in English and is committed to serving the Toronto community with compassion, expertise, and a focus on improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Jeffrey Schachter addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
• Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.

Neuromuscular Diseases

• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system.
• Myasthenia Gravis: A chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by varying degrees of weakness of the skeletal (voluntary) muscles of the body.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-induced, Idiopathic): Damage to or disease affecting nerves, which may impair sensation, movement, gland or organ function, or other aspects of health.

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare inflammatory demyelinating condition of the central nervous system, typically following an infection or vaccination.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
• Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Jeffrey Schachter.

• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Schachter for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton is situated in Toronto's Bathurst Manor, Wilson Heights, and Downsview North neighbourhoods. The facility is conveniently located near popular landmarks like Lee's Palace, making it accessible for residents and visitors alike. Public transit options include the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), providing easy access from various parts of Toronto. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and safety for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, making it convenient for those arriving by car. The practice is committed to providing accessible, patient-centered neurological care in a welcoming environment.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Schachter, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Schachter, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Schachter's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Schachter, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Schachter for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?

For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. Schachter focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Schachter will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.

What are common diagnostic tests in Neurology?

Common tests ordered or interpreted by a neurologist include: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans to visualize the brain and spinal cord; Electroencephalogram (EEG) to record brain electrical activity (often for seizures); Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) to assess nerve and muscle function; Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap) to analyze cerebrospinal fluid; and various blood tests to look for infections, inflammation, or genetic markers. Dr. Schachter will determine which tests, if any, are appropriate for your situation.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. Schachter can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
1881 Steeles Avenue West, Complex Continuing Care Unit
Toronto, ON M3H 5Y4

Phone: (416) 650-1911 | Fax: (416) 650-5735

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Schachter is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Schachter for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Schachter-Jeffrey-Barrett-Joseph/0343150-142487