Dr. Richard Allan Rival – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Newmarket, ON

Dr. Richard Allan Rival, a respected Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), is committed to providing compassionate and patient-centered care for individuals with ear, nose, and throat concerns. Practicing at East York Town Centre in Newmarket, ON, he serves the local community with dedication. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and regulations set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality care and professional integrity. Dr. Rival's focus is on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck region.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 1989 and has been practicing as a specialist in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery for over 29 years, since 1995. Dr. Rival is certified as a RCPSC (Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada) Specialist, reflecting his extensive training and expertise in the field.

Dr. Rival's clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. He is dedicated to providing high-quality ENT care in Newmarket, ensuring that each patient receives personalized attention. He speaks English fluently and is committed to clear communication and compassionate service for all his patients.

Dr. Richard Rival manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Common Ear Conditions

• Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear / Outer Ear Infection): An infection of the outer ear canal, often triggered by water exposure, causing pain, itching, and discharge.

Common Nose and Sinus Conditions

• Recurrent Epistaxis (Nosebleeds): Frequent or difficult-to-control bleeding from the nose, which can have various underlying causes.
• Turbinate Hypertrophy (Enlarged Nasal Turbinates): Swelling or enlargement of the nasal turbinates (structures inside the nose that warm and filter air), leading to nasal obstruction.
• Fungal Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses caused by a fungal infection, which can range from non-invasive to invasive forms.
• Chronic Rhinosinusitis (with or without Nasal Polyps): Long-lasting inflammation of the sinuses (12 weeks or more), sometimes associated with nasal polyps, leading to persistent congestion and discomfort.

This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Richard Rival or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
• Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Rival offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Rival's areas of focus.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). A referral may be required.

Dr. Rival's practice is primarily based at East York Town Centre in the Central Newmarket, Gorham-College Manor neighborhood. The location provides convenient access via Highway 404 and is close to Southlake Regional Health Centre. Patients can reach the clinic easily through York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility for those arriving by car, providing a convenient and stress-free experience.

Are services from Dr. Rival, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Rival are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Rival, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Rival. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.

How are allergies related to ENT problems?

Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.

I've been experiencing dizziness. How will an ENT specialist evaluate this?

Evaluation for dizziness is comprehensive as there are many potential causes. Dr. Rival will take a detailed history of your symptoms (type of dizziness, duration, triggers), review your medical history and medications, and perform a physical examination, including specific tests for balance and inner ear function (like Dix-Hallpike maneuver for BPPV). Depending on the findings, further tests such as a hearing test (audiogram), videonystagmography (VNG) to assess inner ear and central motor functions, or imaging studies (MRI) might be ordered to determine the cause and guide treatment.

I've had a hoarse voice for several weeks. What could be causing this?

Persistent hoarseness (lasting more than 2-3 weeks) should be evaluated by an ENT specialist. Common causes include laryngitis (viral or bacterial), voice overuse or misuse, acid reflux (LPR), vocal cord nodules or polyps, smoking, allergies, or less commonly, more serious conditions like vocal cord paralysis or laryngeal cancer. Dr. Rival will likely perform a laryngoscopy to visualize your vocal cords and determine the cause of your hoarseness.

I have a thyroid nodule. What does an ENT specialist do?

If you have a thyroid nodule, an ENT specialist (Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon) like Dr. Rival will typically evaluate it through a physical exam, review any prior imaging (like ultrasound), and may order blood tests for thyroid function. A key diagnostic step is often a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, where a small sample of cells is taken from the nodule under ultrasound guidance to determine if it's benign or cancerous. Based on these findings, Dr. Rival will discuss whether monitoring, further testing, or surgical removal (thyroidectomy) is indicated.

East York Town Centre
Suite B11, 712 davis dr suite 101a
Newmarket, ON L3Y 8C3

Phone: (905) 830-6711 | Fax: (905) 898-7698

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rival is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Rival-Richard-Allan/0047172-61150