Dr. Paul Westergaard – Internist / Geriatrician | Cornwall, ON

As a skilled Internist / Geriatrician, Dr. Paul Westergaard offers expert diagnostic services and management for a wide range of adult health issues. Practicing in Cornwall, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a focus on providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. His practice is committed to adhering to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and ethical medical practice for all patients.

Dr. Westergaard graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 2010, completing extensive postgraduate training in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. He has obtained key certifications and has accumulated considerable experience in managing complex adult health conditions, particularly in older adults. His training emphasizes evidence-based approaches and tailored care strategies to meet individual patient needs.

Dedicated to clear and educational communication, Dr. Westergaard values building trust and understanding with his patients. He is committed to serving the Cornwall community and speaks English fluently. His clinical philosophy centers on holistic, compassionate care that respects patient preferences and promotes optimal health outcomes, especially in the aging population.

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

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
• Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
• Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.

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.
• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.

Dr. Westergaard 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.

• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
• 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.
• Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
• Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
• Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Westergaard. 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. Westergaard'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. Westergaard's practice is located within Renfrew Medical Associates, situated near the central Cornwall neighborhood of Cornwall, ON. The clinic serves the local community and is easily accessible via public transit options in the area. The location is convenient for residents and visitors, with nearby points of interest including local parks, shopping centres, and community facilities. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Westergaard 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. Westergaard. 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 happens after the initial consultation?

After your assessment, Dr. Westergaard 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. Westergaard 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.

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. Westergaard, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, 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.

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.

What are typical wait times for an appointment?

Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly depending on the urgency of the referral, the volume of requests, and Dr. Westergaard's availability. Our office prioritizes referrals based on medical need. We strive to see patients as promptly as possible and will contact you once the referral is processed to schedule an appointment. You can inquire about approximate wait times when booking.

Renfrew Medical Associates
840 McConnell Avenue
Cornwall, ON K6H 5S5

Phone: (613) 938-4240 | Fax: (855) 462-0211

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Westergaard 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/Westergaard-Paul/0275242-96245