Dr. Karl Michael Hartwick – Internist / Geriatrician | Ottawa, ON

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Karl Michael Hartwick offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Ottawa, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a warm, community-focused approach. Dr. Hartwick is committed to providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention tailored to their unique health needs. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), emphasizing patient safety and quality of care.

Dr. Hartwick graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Calgary in 2004. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and specialized certification in Geriatric Medicine. His training equips him with the expertise to manage complex medical conditions frequently encountered in adult and senior populations, ensuring thorough, evidence-based care.

With a warm and community-oriented philosophy, Dr. Hartwick is dedicated to fostering trust and open communication with his patients. He speaks English fluently and strives to create a welcoming environment where older adults and their families feel heard and supported. His commitment to the Ottawa community reflects his passion for improving the health and well-being of his patients through compassionate, holistic care.

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

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
• Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
• Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.

Dr. Hartwick 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.

• Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
• Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA): A holistic, multidimensional evaluation tailored to older adults, assessing medical conditions, functional ability, cognition, mood, nutrition, social support, and medication use.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Hartwick. 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. Hartwick'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. Hartwick's practice is located in the vibrant Westboro East neighbourhood of Ottawa, within the LHSC University Campus. The location is conveniently situated near Embassy Row and the Royal Canadian Mint, making it accessible for patients from across the city. The practice is easily reached via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and bus services, providing reliable transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Hartwick 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. Hartwick. 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 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 (Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup, Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders), handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.

Is Dr. Hartwick affiliated with a specific hospital?

Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Hartwick may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Ottawa hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Hartwick 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.

How does a Geriatrician's role differ?

A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss, and polypharmacy. Dr. Hartwick applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. He often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.

Will Dr. Karl Michael Hartwick replace my family doctor?

No, Dr. Hartwick acts as a specialist consultant. Your family doctor (or primary care provider) remains responsible for your routine healthcare, ongoing prescriptions (unless specified otherwise by the specialist), and coordinating your overall care. Dr. Hartwick will communicate findings and recommendations back to your family doctor.

LHSC University Campus
1053 Carling Ave., Room F202, P O Box 5339 B3 219 Department of Anesthesia
Ottawa, ON K1Y 4E9

Phone: (613) 798-5555 | Fax: (613) 737-8890

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Hartwick 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/Hartwick-Karl-Michael/0214448-80741