Dr. Perry Joel Rush – Internist / Geriatrician | North York, ON

Dr. Perry Joel Rush is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in North York, ON, he serves the surrounding communities. He adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) to ensure high-quality, ethical, and patient-centered care.

Dr. Rush graduated with a Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 1981. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residencies and certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine, ensuring a broad and in-depth clinical expertise.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes a professional and evidence-based approach, prioritizing patient safety, comprehensive assessment, and individualized treatment plans. He is committed to serving the North York community and speaks English fluently, ensuring clear communication and understanding with his patients.

Dr. Rush 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.
• Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.

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.

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.

Dr. Rush 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.

• Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.
• Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
• Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
• Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
• Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Rush. 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. Rush'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. Rush's practice is located in North York, near the central North York neighborhood, within Bovaird Pediatric Clinic. The location is easily accessible via public transit, with nearby bus stops and subway stations serving the area. The practice is situated close to local points of interest such as major shopping centers and community facilities. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Rush 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. Rush. 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.

Is Dr. Rush affiliated with a specific hospital?

Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Rush may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Toronto hospitals or other local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Rush as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.

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.

Is the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Perioperative Medical Optimization or Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation is crucial, Dr. Rush also places significant emphasis on maintaining or improving daily function and quality of life, especially for older adults. The goal is often to help patients remain as independent and active as possible, addressing issues like mobility, self-care (Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders), and participation in meaningful activities.

Bovaird Pediatric Clinic
Units 11 and 12, 285 Cummer Ave
North York, ON M2M 2G1

Phone: (416) 225-0040

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rush 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/Rush-Perry-Joel/0038388-52364