Dr. Roberta Sandra Schellenberg – Internist / Geriatrician | Kingston, ON

Dr. Roberta Sandra Schellenberg, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Kingston, ON, she serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality medical services tailored to adult and senior patients.

Dr. Schellenberg graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine in 1999 and has completed extensive postgraduate medical training in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. Her certifications include board certification in Internal Medicine, with additional specialized training in geriatrics, enabling her to address complex health issues prevalent among older adults.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in a clear and educational approach, emphasizing thorough assessments, patient education, and shared decision-making. She is dedicated to serving the Kingston community, speaking fluently in English, and maintaining a compassionate, evidence-based practice aimed at improving health outcomes and quality of life for her patients.

Dr. Schellenberg provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
• Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
• Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.

Dr. Schellenberg 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.

• Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• Medication Review and Optimization (Deprescribing): Systematic review of all medications (polypharmacy) to ensure appropriateness, minimize side effects and interactions, and deprescribe unnecessary drugs.
• Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
• 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. Schellenberg. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, she provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Schellenberg'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. Schellenberg's practice is located in the Cataraqui Woods area within the Bayridge West neighborhood of Kingston. She practices within the Clinic of Orthopaedic Medicine, conveniently situated near Kingston Centre (which is undergoing redevelopment) and the Cataraqui Centre shopping mall in the West end. The location is accessible via Kingston Transit bus routes, making it easy for patients to reach the clinic. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Schellenberg 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. Schellenberg. 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 typically happens during a first consultation?

During your initial visit, Dr. Schellenberg will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. She will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, she will discuss her findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.

How does Dr. Roberta Sandra Schellenberg communicate with my family doctor?

Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Schellenberg will send a comprehensive consultation letter outlining the assessment findings, diagnosis (if established), and treatment recommendations. This ensures your family doctor is fully informed and can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.

What happens after the initial consultation?

After your assessment, Dr. Schellenberg will typically send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations to your referring physician. Depending on your specific situation and the reason for referral, Dr. Schellenberg may arrange follow-up appointments, order further tests, or transition care management back to your family doctor with specialist guidance. The plan will be discussed with you.

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

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Delirium Prevention & Management or Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2) is crucial, Dr. Schellenberg 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 (Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms), and participation in meaningful activities.

Clinic of Orthopaedic Medicine
Suite 403, 780 Midpark Dr
Kingston, ON K7M 7P6

Phone: (613) 507-4457 | Fax: (613) 507-4458

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Schellenberg 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/Schellenberg-Roberta-Sandra/0181130-75923