About
Dr. Kathryn Anne Shufelt, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Peterborough, ON, she serves the surrounding communities with a warm and compassionate approach. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring every patient receives safe and effective care. Dr. Shufelt provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, addressing the unique health needs of adults, including seniors, in her community.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 2000 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 in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine, reflecting her dedication to ongoing professional development and clinical excellence.
With a warm and community-focused philosophy, Dr. Shufelt is committed to serving her patients with kindness and respect. She speaks English fluently and is dedicated to fostering a trusting, collaborative relationship with each individual. Her goal is to improve health outcomes and quality of life for her patients, emphasizing holistic and patient-centered care.
Dr. Shufelt provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
- Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
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.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
Dr. Shufelt 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.
- Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
- Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
- 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.
- Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Shufelt. 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. Shufelt'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. Shufelt’s practice is located in the heart of Downtown Peterborough, within the Central neighborhood. It is conveniently situated near Trent University Symons Campus and the Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site, making it accessible for residents and visitors alike. The facility is easily reached via Peterborough Transit, ensuring convenient public transportation options. The practice is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for those arriving by car.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Shufelt? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Shufelt 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. Shufelt. 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.
- Why is reviewing multiple medications (polypharmacy) important?
- As people age or develop multiple health conditions, they often take many medications. Polypharmacy increases the risk of side effects, drug interactions, falls, confusion, and non-adherence. A careful review helps ensure each medication is truly necessary, effective, and safe, potentially leading to deprescribing (stopping unnecessary drugs) and simplifying the regimen.
- What should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?
- Dr. Shufelt's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.
- How does Dr. Kathryn Anne Shufelt communicate with my family doctor?
- Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Shufelt will send a comprehensive consultation letter outlining the assessment findings, diagnosis (if established), and treatment recommendations. This ensures your family doctor is fully informed and can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.
- Is Dr. Shufelt affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Shufelt may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Peterborough hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Shufelt 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.
Suite 302, 1 Hospital Drive
Peterborough, ON K9J 7C6
Phone: (705) 743-2121 | Fax: (705) 876-5155
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Shufelt 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/Shufelt-Kathryn-Anne/0168861-74862