About
Dr. Robert Thompson Semmler is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Peterborough, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring patients receive safe and effective neurological care.
Dr. Semmler graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. With over 32 years of experience as a Neurologist since 1992, he brings extensive expertise to his clinical practice. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), affirming his specialized training and qualifications in neurology.
His clinical philosophy is rooted in providing patient-centered care through a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Semmler is committed to evidence-based practice, ongoing patient education, and offering support throughout the diagnostic and treatment process. He is dedicated to serving the community of Peterborough, providing care in English, and ensuring that each patient’s unique needs are addressed with compassion and professionalism.
Dr. Robert Semmler addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
- Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
Movement Disorders
- Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): A condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically because of an uncomfortable sensation.
- Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorders: Neurological disorders characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.
Neuromuscular Diseases
- Myasthenia Gravis: A chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disease characterized by varying degrees of weakness of the skeletal (voluntary) muscles of the body.
- Muscular Dystrophies (e.g., Duchenne, Becker, Myotonic Dystrophy): A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) / Motor Neuron Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Robert Semmler.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Semmler for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is situated in the vibrant Downtown Peterborough, Central neighborhood, serving as a key medical facility within the hospital. The practice is conveniently accessible from Trent University Symons Campus and is well-connected via Peterborough Transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for visitors, making it easy to attend appointments. The location offers a welcoming environment for patients and their families seeking specialized neurological care in a trusted hospital setting.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Semmler, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Semmler, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Semmler's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Semmler, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Semmler for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- What does a Neurologist like Dr. Semmler specialize in?
- A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Semmler is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.
- What are the treatment options for epilepsy?
- The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Semmler can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Room 386, 208-849 Alexander Crt
Peterborough, ON K9J 7H8
Phone: (705) 743-9509 | Fax: (705) 743-2341
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Semmler is a licensed Neurologist 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 a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Semmler for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Semmler-Robert-Thompson/0044568-58546