Dr. Rasha Dhia Alani – Family Doctor | Paris, ON

Dr. Rasha Dhia Alani is a Family Doctor. Practicing at a family doctor practice in Paris, 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. Rasha Dhia Alani 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 a holistic approach to health, considering the physical, mental, emotional, and social factors that influence a patient's well-being; a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care; advocating for patients' needs within the healthcare system and coordinating care effectively with specialists and community services. She provides consultations in English.

Dr. Rasha Dhia Alani provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Adult Common Health Issues

• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Initial assessment and conservative management of symptoms related to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose veins, such as leg aching, heaviness, swelling (edema), skin changes (e.g., hyperpigmentation, lipodermatosclerosis, venous eczema), and uncomplicated superficial thrombophlebitis. Ruling out deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if acute unilateral swelling/pain.
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection - Testing & Eradication Therapy: Prescribing evidence-based eradication therapy regimens (typically involving a combination of antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor - PPI) for confirmed H. pylori infection, according to local guidelines and resistance patterns. Providing patient education on medication adherence and potential side effects.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Helping patients find relief from itchy, irritated, or dry eyes through appropriate primary care interventions and guidance.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Primary care approach to accurately diagnosing and effectively treating common forms of anemia to improve energy levels, cognitive function, exercise tolerance, and overall health. Referral to hematology for complex or unexplained anemia.

Common Chronic Conditions

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) & Associated Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Partnering with you to achieve and maintain optimal blood pressure control, thereby significantly reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other related health problems.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain (e.g., Chronic Back/Neck Pain, Fibromyalgia): Long-term support and care for managing the symptoms of degenerative joint disease and other chronic musculoskeletal pain, focusing on self-management and maintaining an active lifestyle.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, B12/Folate Deficiency - Chronic): Primary care approach to identifying and managing deficiencies or chronic conditions that lead to persistent anemia.
• Asthma (All Ages) & Allergic Rhinitis: Comprehensive care for individuals with asthma and related allergies, focusing on patient empowerment, self-management skills, and emergency preparedness for asthma attacks.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Bacterial Skin Infections (Impetigo, Folliculitis, Cellulitis - uncomplicated): Diagnosis and treatment of common superficial bacterial skin infections such as impetigo (honey-crusted lesions), folliculitis (infected hair follicles), and uncomplicated cellulitis (localized skin infection with redness, warmth, swelling, pain) or erysipelas. Management includes topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin, fusidic acid) for localized infections or oral antibiotics (e.g., cephalexin, cloxacillin, clindamycin) for more extensive or systemic involvement. Advice on wound care and hygiene.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Contact Dermatitis & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Comprehensive primary care for common inflammatory skin conditions, aiming to alleviate symptoms, prevent secondary infections, and improve patient comfort and overall skin health.
• Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Primary care support for individuals with psoriasis, coordinating with specialist care as needed for more advanced treatment options and comprehensive management of this chronic systemic condition.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Ensuring a healthy start for newborns with regular check-ups, timely interventions if issues arise, and resources for parental education and support.
• Common Childhood Infections (Viral & Bacterial - Ear, Throat, Chest, Skin, GI): Expert management of a wide spectrum of acute illnesses affecting infants, toddlers, and school-aged children, including clear guidance for parents on home care, symptom relief, and when to seek urgent re-assessment.
• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Diagnosing and managing common chronic conditions in pediatric patients, such as asthma (including education on inhaler/spacer technique, trigger avoidance, development of personalized asthma action plans for home and school), eczema (atopic dermatitis - focusing on skincare, emollients, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, trigger management), and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Includes initial assessment and guidance for food allergies, with referral to pediatric allergists for confirmation and comprehensive management if indicated.
• Childhood Immunization Schedule Management & Counseling: Keeping your child's vaccinations fully up-to-date for their individual protection and to contribute to community (herd) immunity, thereby protecting vulnerable individuals.

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

• Assessment & Management of Common Joint Pain (Knee, Shoulder, Hip, Back): Diagnosing and providing primary care management for common musculoskeletal issues such as osteoarthritis, mechanical low back pain, neck pain, rotator cuff tendinopathy, bursitis, and other non-specific joint or muscle pain.
• Patient Education on Specific Health Conditions & Self-Management: Providing clear, understandable information about diagnosed health conditions, including causes, symptoms, treatment options, prognosis, and empowering patients with knowledge and skills for effective self-management (e.g., how to use an inhaler, monitor blood sugar, manage an action plan).
• Management of Other Chronic Conditions (e.g., GERD, IBS, Anemia): Coordinated management of diverse chronic illnesses within a primary care setting.
• Well-Child Visits & Developmental Surveillance (Infancy to Adolescence): Expert medical care and guidance for your child at every stage of development, promoting optimal physical, cognitive, and emotional health.
• Insomnia & Sleep Disorder Management (Primary Care Approach): Comprehensive management of common sleep disorders to restore restorative sleep patterns and improve overall health and alertness.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Alani. 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 Dr. Rasha Dhia Alani's practice, 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. Alani frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Many seek Dr. Alani's help for dealing with chronic constipation despite trying home remedies. The collaborative goal is having a clear, actionable, and well-understood plan, along with readily available support from Dr. Alani, for effectively managing an acute flare-up of a chronic condition like Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Chronic Migraine, or Rheumatoid Arthritis (often in co-management with specialists), allowing a return to valued activities like consistently maintaining good, ergonomic posture and avoiding musculoskeletal discomfort while working for extended periods at a computer station, office desk, or in other sedentary job roles.
• If discussing the pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy for menopause is a barrier, Dr. Alani develops strategies aimed at seeing tangible and encouraging improvements in their important biomedical markers and lab results, such as normalized blood sugar levels (HbA1c), optimal LDL cholesterol and triglyceride profiles, well-controlled blood pressure readings, or improved kidney function tests, reflecting better disease management with Dr. Alani, facilitating the ability to enjoy feeling well-prepared, physically able, and mentally positive for attending and fully participating in significant, once-in-a-lifetime family or social events like weddings, milestone anniversaries, international reunions, or major academic graduations.
• Struggling with feeling stressed about caregiving responsibilities for an elderly parent or sick relative? Dr. Alani helps patients target their elderly parents or relatives receiving thoughtful, patient, dignified, and age-appropriate comprehensive care from Dr. Alani that demonstrably enhances their functional abilities, safety, and overall quality of life in their later years, making a return to activities such as patiently and effectively teaching their children or grandchildren important life skills, sharing enjoyable intergenerational activities, or simply offering wise guidance and loving support as they grow more achievable.
• It's rewarding for Dr. Alani to see patients with wanting to discuss fertility concerns or get initial advice before trying to conceive achieve feeling a profound sense of relief and gratitude after finally discussing a 'embarrassing' or stigmatized health concern with Dr. Alani in a completely safe, confidential, and entirely supportive clinical environment and return to important activities like feeling confident enough in their stable health and physical abilities to make spontaneous, last-minute plans, embrace unexpected opportunities, or enthusiastically try new, unfamiliar activities or experiences.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Alani, 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. Alani practices at a family medical clinic in Paris, situated in a family medical practice in the central Paris neighborhood of Paris. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Ontario if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario, your local health authority website, or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario patient-doctor matching service (if available) may be helpful. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see most medical specialists.

What should I expect during my first 'meet and greet' or new patient intake appointment with Dr. Alani?

When you first meet Dr. Alani as a new patient, expect to spend time discussing your complete health profile. She will likely ask about your past medical history, significant family illnesses, all current medications (including vitamins and supplements), allergies, lifestyle factors like diet and exercise, and any specific health concerns or goals you have. This comprehensive intake helps Dr. Alani understand your overall health status and begin to formulate a long-term care plan. It's also an excellent time to ask any questions you may have about her approach to medicine or clinic procedures.

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 our clinic 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?

A family doctor (Ontario) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a family doctor like Dr. Alani?

Continuity of care means having an ongoing relationship with your family doctor, Dr. Alani, and her team over time. It's important because it allows Dr. Alani to get to know you, your health history, your values, and your family context comprehensively. This deep understanding helps Dr. Alani make more informed diagnoses, tailor treatments to your specific needs, coordinate your care more effectively with specialists, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. Studies show that good continuity of care with a family doctor is linked to better health outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and more appropriate use of healthcare resources.

How often should I see Dr. Alani for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups or periodic health exams with Dr. Alani can vary based on your age, overall health, any existing medical conditions, and specific risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need a full check-up less frequently (e.g., every 2-5 years if no concerns), while children, older adults (e.g., annually over 65), or individuals with chronic conditions may benefit from more frequent visits (e.g., annually or semi-annually). For specific screening tests like Pap smears or mammograms, there are established provincial guidelines based on age and gender which Dr. Alani follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Alani to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care. Even if you feel healthy, regular check-ins can be important for early detection and health maintenance.

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

To find a family doctor in Ontario who is accepting new patients, you can check the website of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, which often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list. In Ontario, you can also 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 may take time and effort.

A1-1070 Rest Acres Rd
Paris, ON, N3L 0K6

Phone: (519) 442-9999

Dr. Rasha Dhia Alani 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: 123251

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Alani-Rasha-Dhia/0332885-123251

Family doctors like Dr. Alani 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.