About
Dr. Michael Joseph Hammer, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in North York, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. He provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, ensuring that each patient receives tailored, compassionate treatment. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), emphasizing patient safety and quality care.
Dr. Hammer graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 2015 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including specialized residency in internal medicine and geriatrics. His training equips him with the skills to manage complex adult and senior health conditions, always aiming to improve quality of life and functional independence.
With a warm and community-centered philosophy, Dr. Hammer is committed to serving the North York area. He speaks English fluently and values building trusting relationships with his patients and their families. His goal is to offer accessible, respectful, and thorough medical care that aligns with the values and needs of his community.
Dr. Hammer provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- 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.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
- Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
Dr. Hammer 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 Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.
- Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
- 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.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Hammer. 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. Hammer'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).
Practicing in the central North York neighborhood of North York, Dr. Hammer's clinic is conveniently located within The Royal. The area is well-served by public transit, making access easy for local residents. The practice is situated near local points of interest, providing a welcoming environment for patients. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Hammer? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Hammer 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. Hammer. 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.
- Does Dr. Michael Joseph Hammer discuss goals of care or advance care planning?
- Yes, discussing goals of care is an important part of patient-centered practice, especially in managing chronic illness or in geriatric care. Dr. Hammer encourages conversations about patient values, preferences for future medical treatment, and advance care planning (including identifying a substitute decision-maker) to ensure care aligns with what matters most to the patient. He can provide information and facilitate these discussions.
The Royal
5 Fairview Mall Dr, Mental Health
North York, ON M2J 2Z1
Phone: (416) 907-4990
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hammer 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/Hammer-Michael-Joseph/0303134-106440