About
With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Melissa Toupin serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Ottawa, ON, she provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, primarily serving adult patients including seniors. Her practice is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered medical services in accordance with the standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Toupin’s role involves diagnosing, managing, and coordinating complex medical conditions in adult and elderly populations to enhance health outcomes and quality of life.
Dr. Toupin graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 2007 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. Her certifications include successful completion of residency programs in internal medicine and geriatrics, along with ongoing professional development to stay current with evolving medical practices and guidelines.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism, thoroughness, and compassionate care. Dr. Toupin is dedicated to serving the Ottawa community and speaks both English and French fluently, ensuring effective communication and personalized treatment for a diverse patient population.
Dr. Toupin provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
- Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
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.
- Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
- Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
Dr. Toupin 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.
- 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.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
- Management of Acute Medical Issues (Inpatient Focus): Diagnosis and treatment of serious acute illnesses requiring hospital admission (often a primary role in hospital settings).
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Toupin. 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. Toupin'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. Toupin's practice is located in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, and Billings Bridge neighborhoods of Ottawa. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Ottawa Public Library Main Branch, with easy access via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Toupin? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Toupin 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. Toupin. 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.
- Can a family member or friend accompany me to the appointment?
- Yes, absolutely. Patients are welcome to bring a family member, friend, or caregiver to their appointment for support, to help recall information, or to ask questions. Especially for complex discussions or if memory is a concern, having a second person present can be very beneficial.
- How does Dr. Melissa Toupin communicate with my family doctor?
- Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Toupin 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.
- What happens after the initial consultation?
- After your assessment, Dr. Toupin will typically send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations to your referring physician. Depending on your specific situation and the reason for referral, Dr. Toupin may arrange follow-up appointments, order further tests, or transition care management back to your family doctor with specialist guidance. The plan will be discussed with you.
501 Smyth Rd.
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6
Phone: (613) 737-8899 | Fax: (613) 737-8861
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Toupin 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/Toupin-Melissa/0243297-86692