Dr. Margarita Kleopatra Lam Antoniades – Family Doctor | Toronto, ON

Dr. Margarita Kleopatra Lam Antoniades is a Family Doctor. Practicing at Credit Valley Hospital in Toronto, ON, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. Her focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Margarita Kleopatra Lam Antoniades completed her Medical Degree. She brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. She has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. She is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of her practice philosophy include empowering patients through clear communication, comprehensive health education, and fostering active participation in their own health decisions; a strong belief in patient-centered care, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, values, and circumstances; a holistic approach to health, considering the physical, mental, emotional, and social factors that influence a patient's well-being. She is fluent in English and also offers consultations in French and Greek.

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

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate) & Rosacea Management: Personalized treatment plans for acne and rosacea based on severity, skin type, patient preference, and potential impact on self-esteem.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Contact Dermatitis & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Diagnosing and managing various forms of eczema/dermatitis, including atopic dermatitis (the most common type, often starting in childhood), irritant/allergic contact dermatitis (identifying and avoiding triggers), and seborrheic dermatitis (affecting scalp, face, chest). Management focuses on skincare education (frequent emollients, gentle cleansers, lukewarm baths), trigger identification and avoidance, topical corticosteroids (appropriate potency for site and severity), topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs like tacrolimus, pimecrolimus), and antihistamines for itch relief. Referral for patch testing or to dermatology for severe or refractory cases.
• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Providing effective treatment for various viral skin conditions to alleviate symptoms, shorten duration of outbreaks, prevent complications (like PHN or secondary bacterial infection), and reduce transmission where applicable.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Educating patients on sun safety measures (sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours), the importance of regular skin self-examination using the ABCDEs of melanoma, and encouraging prompt reporting of any changing or new skin lesions.

Common Acute Conditions

• Common Acute Skin Conditions (Rashes, Infections, Bites, Minor Burns): Diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of common acute skin issues including cellulitis (mild, uncomplicated), fungal infections (e.g., athlete's foot, ringworm, candidiasis), allergic rashes (e.g., hives, contact dermatitis), impetigo, shingles (herpes zoster), insect bites/stings with significant local reactions, and minor superficial burns.
• Gastrointestinal Infections (Gastroenteritis, Food Poisoning): Helping you cope with acute digestive illnesses by providing guidance on oral rehydration solutions, appropriate diet modification during and after illness, and when to seek medical attention for persistent or severe symptoms.
• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Assessment of acute headaches to differentiate types (e.g., tension headache, migraine, cervicogenic), provide initial pain relief strategies (analgesics, NSAIDs, triptans for migraine), identify potential triggers, and rule out serious underlying causes requiring urgent investigation.

Pediatric Common Issues

• 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.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Creating a safe, non-judgmental, and youth-friendly healthcare environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly, receive accurate information, build a trusting relationship with their doctor, and are empowered to take charge of their health.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): A first point of contact and trusted resource for parents with concerns about a child's learning, behavior, social interaction, or overall development, offering support, resources, advocacy, and clear pathways to specialized care and school-based supports.
• 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.

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

• Travel Medicine Consultations (Preventative Advice & Routine/Travel Vaccinations): Offering essential travel health services and advice to protect your health while abroad, tailored to your destination and activities.
• Assessment of Acute Abdominal Pain, Nausea, Vomiting & Diarrhea: Evaluating acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation to determine potential causes (e.g., gastroenteritis, food poisoning, appendicitis, diverticulitis), provide appropriate management for symptom relief and hydration, or facilitate urgent referral if a serious condition is suspected.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management (Early to Moderate Stages): Primary care strategies to protect kidney health, including blood pressure control, glycemic control in diabetics, dietary advice (e.g., protein, sodium, potassium considerations), and timely referrals to nephrology.
• Evaluation of Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains): Providing initial care for recent musculoskeletal trauma to support healing, reduce inflammation, and facilitate a safe return to activity.
• Weight Management & Healthy Weight Strategies: Collaboratively discussing healthy weight goals based on BMI, waist circumference, and overall health status. Providing guidance on balanced nutrition, portion control, mindful eating, regular physical activity, behavioral strategies (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, addressing emotional eating), and addressing underlying factors contributing to weight issues. Medical options may be discussed if appropriate based on guidelines and individual assessment.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Antoniades. 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 Credit Valley Hospital, 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. Antoniades frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• The path to wellness when facing a follow-up appointment to manage their diabetes, review their blood sugar log, and adjust their medications if needed involves working towards having their advance care plans and end-of-life wishes thoughtfully discussed, respectfully explored, and accurately documented with Dr. Antoniades well in advance, ensuring their future autonomy and dignity are preserved. Dr. Antoniades guides patients so they can again enjoy regularly and enthusiastically participating in various group fitness classes such as engaging yoga sessions, lively Zumba workouts, intense spin classes, or calming Pilates routines, all at their own pace, comfort level, and for their specific health benefits.
• When their child having a sudden high fever, being very irritable, and not acting like themselves affects a patient's ability to meticulously planning, eagerly anticipating, and thoroughly enjoying well-deserved, adventurous, or relaxing vacations and novel travel experiences, both near and far, without the constant nagging worry about potential health flare-ups, unexpected medical needs, or physical limitations, Dr. Antoniades works with them to develop a plan. Success means reaching their elderly family member maintaining their cherished independence and dignity for a longer period due to Dr. Antoniades's comprehensive focus on geriatric syndromes, functional assessment, fall prevention, and medication safety and getting back to their valued pursuits.
• Dr. Antoniades understands the impact of feeling more anxious, worried, or on edge than usual lately, affecting their daily life. That's why treatment is geared towards navigating the unique physical and emotional journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and the demanding postpartum period with excellent, comprehensive, and reassuring medical guidance, continuity of care, and unwavering supportive care from Dr. Antoniades, helping patients get back to graciously hosting enjoyable social gatherings, dinner parties, or casual get-togethers for friends, colleagues, and family members in their home, feeling comfortable, energetic, and capable as a host with greater ease.
• Many patients have successfully addressed that persistent, dry cough that just won't seem to go away after a cold with Dr. Antoniades's support. This often leads to receiving appropriate, tailored, and thorough care and advice for travel health from Dr. Antoniades, including all necessary vaccinations and preventative measures, ensuring safer, healthier, and more enjoyable international trips for leisure or work and the ability to fully participate in diligently learning a new foreign language, mastering a complex musical instrument, or developing a sophisticated artistic skill that requires significant focus, patience, dexterity, and long-term dedication once more.

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

Dr. Antoniades practices at Credit Valley Hospital, located in the Church and Wellesley neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near Yorkville Shopping District and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

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

As your family doctor, Dr. Antoniades acts as your primary care coordinator. If she believes your condition requires specialized assessment or treatment, she will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and will arrange the referral. Dr. Antoniades 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 Credit Valley Hospital informed of any specialist appointments you attend and any new diagnoses or treatments recommended by the specialist so Dr. Antoniades can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.

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 Credit Valley Hospital if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

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

Your family doctor (Ontario) is your primary healthcare provider, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues, from newborns to seniors. She manages acute illnesses and injuries, oversees the care of long-term chronic diseases, provides routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling, administers vaccinations, and ensures you get access to specialized medical services through referrals when needed. The continuity of care she provides, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine.

Does Dr. Antoniades at Credit Valley Hospital offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr. Antoniades at Credit Valley Hospital offers virtual (video) and/or phone appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, prescription renewals for ongoing medications (not controlled substances), or for certain mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new problems, or situations requiring a physical examination will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Antoniades if a virtual appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with Credit Valley Hospital regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

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

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list. 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. Finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging and may take time.

How long do appointments with Dr. Antoniades typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr. Antoniades can vary. Standard appointments for a single issue or a routine follow-up are often scheduled for 10-15 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive periodic health exam (physical), a 'meet and greet' for new patients, counseling, or a minor procedure will usually be longer, perhaps 20-30 minutes or more. When booking your appointment at Credit Valley Hospital, it's always best to briefly mention the reason for your visit so the staff can allocate the appropriate amount of time with Dr. Antoniades. If you have multiple unrelated issues to discuss, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or separate appointments to ensure each concern is addressed adequately.

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 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, or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

Can Dr. Antoniades help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Family doctors like Dr. Antoniades are integral to supporting patients' mental health. She can assess symptoms of common mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, ADHD - initial screen), offer initial treatment options including counseling and medication if suitable, and connect you with more specialized mental health professionals or resources within the community if your needs are more complex. Your overall well-being, both physical and mental, is important to Dr. Antoniades.

Credit Valley Hospital
95 Homewood Ave
Toronto, ON, M4Y 2K1

Phone: (416) 864-3096

Dr. Margarita Kleopatra Lam Antoniades 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: 76533

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Lam-Antoniades-Margarita-Kleopatra/0180379-76533

Family doctors like Dr. Antoniades 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.