Dr. John Pefanis

Dr. John Pefanis provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Chronic Conditions

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Primary Care Management: Diagnosing IBS based on symptom criteria after ruling out other conditions, and providing primary care management strategies including dietary advice (e.g., low FODMAP diet introduction, fiber management), lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and symptomatic treatment for abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation.
• Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's, Nodules): Diagnosis, treatment (e.g., levothyroxine for hypothyroidism, antithyroid drugs or referral for hyperthyroidism), and long-term monitoring of common thyroid conditions, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, to ensure hormonal balance, manage symptoms effectively, and screen for complications like thyroid nodules or goiter. Includes initial investigation of thyroid abnormalities (e.g., ultrasound for nodules) and coordination with endocrinology for complex cases.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, B12/Folate Deficiency - Chronic): Investigating causes of chronic or recurrent anemia (e.g., fatigue, pallor) through blood tests (CBC, iron studies, B12, folate, ferritin). Managing common types such as iron deficiency anemia (oral/IV iron supplementation, dietary advice) and vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anemia (supplementation), and identifying/addressing underlying causes (e.g., malabsorption, chronic blood loss, dietary insufficiency).

Mental Health Concerns

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Conducting initial assessments and ongoing management for ADHD symptoms in children, adolescents, and adults, using validated screening tools and collateral information (from parents, teachers). Providing psychoeducation, behavioral strategies, lifestyle coaching, academic/workplace accommodation discussions, evidence-based medication management (stimulants, non-stimulants), and referral to specialists (pediatricians, psychiatrists) for complex cases, diagnostic confirmation, or co-occurring conditions.
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Helping individuals navigate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and other depressive symptoms, aiming to restore emotional well-being, daily functioning, and prevent relapse.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Helping you identify and address factors contributing to poor sleep, and develop effective, sustainable strategies to improve sleep quality, duration, and daytime alertness and functioning.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Ensuring your child meets key developmental stages according to age, receives all recommended preventative health screenings (e.g., vision, hearing, anemia, lead - as per guidelines), and appropriate immunizations in a timely manner.
• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Supporting new parents in caring for their infant, addressing common concerns (colic, reflux, sleep patterns), and promoting bonding and healthy attachment.
• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Primary care coordination for childhood asthma, eczema, and allergies, ensuring optimal health, growth, and development, with close collaboration with pediatric specialists when necessary for severe or complex cases.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Pefanis. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Management of Acute Dermatological Conditions (Rashes, Hives, Shingles): Diagnosing and treating common acute skin problems such as eczema flare-ups, contact dermatitis, acne exacerbations, shingles (herpes zoster), fungal infections (e.g., ringworm, athlete's foot), hives (urticaria), and insect bites/stings with significant reactions.
• Care for Minor Injuries & Acute Musculoskeletal Complaints: Management of uncomplicated musculoskeletal injuries and skin wounds in a primary care setting, with referrals to specialized care when necessary.
• Occupational Health Aspects & Work-Related Health Concerns (Initial Assessment): Addressing health concerns that may be related to a patient's occupation, providing initial assessment for work-related injuries or illnesses, and completing necessary forms (e.g., fitness to work, return to work).
• Cardiovascular Disease Management (Stable CAD, Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation): Helping patients manage their heart health long-term after cardiac events or diagnoses, focusing on secondary prevention and maintaining functional capacity.
• Ordering & Interpretation of Diagnostic Imaging & Laboratory Testing: Utilizing appropriate diagnostic investigations judiciously to ensure accurate medical assessment, informed decision-making, and efficient use of healthcare resources.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Pefanis. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in ON and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At TrueNorth Medical Centre, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Pefanis frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• With Dr. Pefanis's care, managing their child complaining of stomach aches frequently, possibly related to stress or diet aims for feeling substantially more in control of their personal health journey, demonstrably better equipped to make informed health decisions for themselves and their family, and genuinely optimistic about their future health prospects due to the guidance and partnership with Dr. Pefanis, empowering patients to get back to what they love, like comfortably and easily using stairs at home, in their workplace, or in various public places as needed throughout the day, without experiencing significant breathlessness, joint pain, or instability.
• Addressing needing a referral to a physiotherapist, psychologist, or other allied health professional with Dr. Pefanis often leads to markedly avoiding unnecessary, costly, or potentially risky specialist visits, diagnostic tests, or hospitalizations due to the proactive, thorough, and guideline-concordant primary care provided by Dr. Pefanis, enabling patients to more freely engage in still feeling reasonably energetic and mentally alert after a full and demanding day's work, enabling them to engage in enjoyable evening activities, family time, or personal hobbies rather than collapsing from exhaustion.
• Patients experiencing needing a medical form filled out for insurance claims, disability benefits, or a new job application often seek Dr. Pefanis's help to improve their quality of life. A key goal is receiving appropriate and timely referrals for genetic counseling or testing through Dr. Pefanis when indicated by significant family history of heritable conditions or specific clinical findings, supporting their return to activities like thoughtfully and proactively planning for their long-term future, including considerations for retirement, potential changes in living arrangements, or other significant life transitions, with a strong sense of health security and financial preparedness.
• For those challenged by wanting to create a healthier home environment for their family's well-being, Dr. Pefanis offers strategies to reach having a clear, actionable, and well-understood plan, along with readily available support from Dr. Pefanis, for effectively managing an acute flare-up of a chronic condition like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Chronic Migraine, or Rheumatoid Arthritis (often in co-management with specialists), which can mean rediscovering the joy of simply and profoundly relaxing, completely unwinding, and thoroughly enjoying quiet, restorative moments of peace, mindfulness, and genuine contentment at home without being constantly plagued or interrupted by intrusive health worries, pain, or discomfort.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Pefanis, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Pefanis practices at TrueNorth Medical Centre, located in the Waterloo West (Columbia Forest, Clair Hills) neighborhood of Waterloo. The clinic is conveniently located near University of Waterloo North Campus and is accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT) (Bus and ION Light Rail). Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

What happens if Dr. Pefanis determines I need to see a medical specialist?

As your family doctor, Dr. Pefanis acts as your primary care coordinator. If he believes your condition requires specialized assessment or treatment, he will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and will arrange the referral. Dr. Pefanis will send your pertinent medical details to the specialist. The specialist's office will then typically contact you to book the appointment. It's important to keep TrueNorth Medical Centre informed of any specialist appointments you attend and any new diagnoses or treatments recommended by the specialist so Dr. Pefanis can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor (Ontario) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. He is skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON who is accepting new patients?

Finding a family doctor in Ontario who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list on their website. In Ontario, you can register with Health Care Connect. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly. It may take time to find a doctor.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with TrueNorth Medical Centre if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a family doctor like Dr. Pefanis?

Continuity of care means having an ongoing relationship with your family doctor, Dr. Pefanis, and his team over time. It's important because it allows Dr. Pefanis to get to know you, your health history, your values, and your family context comprehensively. This deep understanding helps Dr. Pefanis make more informed diagnoses, tailor treatments to your specific needs, coordinate your care more effectively with specialists, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. Studies show that good continuity of care with a family doctor is linked to better health outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and more appropriate use of healthcare resources.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON?

Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see a family doctor in Ontario if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario, a local health authority website, or the provincial College of Physicians and Surgeons patient-doctor matching service (if available) may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

TrueNorth Medical Centre
Unit 2nd Floor, 404-435 The Boardwalk, 2nd Floor
Waterloo, ON, N2T 0C2

Phone: (226) 476-3178

Dr. John Pefanis is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario) in ON and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Registration Number: 73238

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Pefanis-John/0117293-73238

Family doctors like Dr. Pefanis are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.