About
Dr. Richard Alexander Wells, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Toronto, ON, he serves the surrounding communities, providing compassionate and comprehensive healthcare tailored to each patient’s unique needs. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe and ethical medical care. Dr. Wells specializes in addressing the complex health concerns of adults, especially older adults and seniors, fostering a warm and trusting relationship with his patients.
Dr. Wells graduated with his Medical Degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty of Medicine in 1985, earning his medical license through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. He has completed extensive postgraduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine, with additional certifications in geriatrics and chronic disease management, enabling him to offer specialized expertise in adult and senior health care.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes a warm, community-focused approach that values patient engagement and preventive care. Dr. Wells is committed to serving the Toronto community with integrity and dedication. He speaks fluent English and strives to provide clear, respectful communication to all his patients, fostering a supportive environment for health and well-being.
Dr. Wells provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- 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
- 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.
- Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
Dr. Wells 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.
- Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- 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.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Wells. 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. Wells'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. Wells's practice is located in the Newtonbrook area within the Willowdale neighborhood of Toronto, Ontario. The location is conveniently situated near Harbourfront Centre, making it easily accessible for patients from various parts of the city. Patients can reach the clinic via TTC, including subway, streetcar, and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Wells? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Wells 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. Wells. 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 should I do if I have an urgent medical problem?
- Dr. Wells's office provides specialist consultations and is not equipped for emergency care. If you have an urgent medical issue or emergency, please contact your family doctor, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, or call 911.
- What kind of tests might Dr. Richard Alexander Wells order?
- Depending on your specific medical situation, Dr. Wells may order various tests to aid in diagnosis or management. These could include blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies (like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans), electrocardiograms (ECGs), or referrals for other specialized tests (like pulmonary function tests or bone density scans). He will explain why any tests are being recommended.
25 Morton Shulman Avenue
Toronto, ON M2M 0B1
Phone: (416) 301-5111
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Wells 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/Wells-Richard-Alexander/0050234-64213