Description
About Dr. Jodi Taryn Heshka
As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Jodi Taryn Heshka offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Ottawa, ON, she serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. Her practice is committed to adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective medical services.
Dr. Heshka graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 2007 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. Her certifications include certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her specialized expertise and dedication to continuous professional development. She has also completed additional training in geriatric assessment and management, emphasizing her commitment to the health and well-being of older adults.
Her clinical philosophy is rooted in providing clear, educational, and patient-centered care. Dr. Heshka is dedicated to serving the Ottawa community with compassionate and evidence-based medical practice. She speaks English fluently and values open communication, ensuring her patients are well-informed and actively involved in their healthcare decisions.
Conditions Managed by Dr. Jodi Taryn Heshka
Dr. Heshka provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
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.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
- Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
Dr. Heshka 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.
Clinical Services Offered by Dr. Jodi Taryn Heshka
- Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
- Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
- Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Heshka. 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. Heshka'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).
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Heshka's practice is located in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, and Billings Bridge neighborhoods of Ottawa, within the RRI Imaging facility. The practice is conveniently situated near the National Gallery of Canada, making it accessible for local residents and visitors. Patients can reach the clinic easily via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Heshka? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Heshka 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. Heshka. 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.
- Does Dr. Jodi Taryn Heshka discuss goals of care or advance care planning?
- Yes, discussing goals of care is an important part of patient-centered practice, especially in managing chronic illness or in geriatric care. Dr. Heshka encourages conversations about patient values, preferences for future medical treatment, and advance care planning (including identifying a substitute decision-maker) to ensure care aligns with what matters most to the patient. She can provide information and facilitate these discussions.
- Is Dr. Heshka affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Heshka may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at specific local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Heshka as needed, or she might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.
Contact & Licensing Information
RRI Imaging
1355 Bank Street
Ottawa, ON K1H 8K7
Phone: (613) 738-1584
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Heshka 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/Heshka-Jodi-Taryn/0243283-87309