Dr. Ron Wald – Internist / Geriatrician | Toronto, ON

Dr. Ron Wald, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Toronto, ON, he serves the surrounding communities with a warm and community-focused approach. He provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His practice primarily serves adult patients, including older adults and seniors, ensuring they receive attentive and tailored medical attention.

Dr. Wald earned his Medical Degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences in 1999. He completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residencies and fellowships in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine, equipping him with specialized expertise to address complex health issues in adult and senior populations.

With a warm and community-oriented philosophy, Dr. Wald is committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. He speaks English, French, and Hebrew, allowing him to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations and foster trust and understanding in his clinical practice.

Dr. Wald 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.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
• Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
• Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• 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.
• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.

Dr. Wald 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.
• Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.
• Cognitive and Memory Assessment: Detailed evaluation for concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking; diagnosis and management of dementia and mild cognitive impairment.
• Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
• Driving Safety Assessment Consultation (Medical): Evaluating medical fitness to drive in older adults, considering cognitive, sensory, and physical factors.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Wald. 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. Wald'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. Wald's practice is located in the vibrant Garden District within the Ryerson neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is situated within the Hospital for Sick Children, providing a central and accessible location for patients from across the city. The practice is conveniently near Massey Hall and Kensington Market, making it easy to access cultural and community hubs. It is well-served by Toronto's TTC system, including subway, streetcar, and bus routes, ensuring public transportation options are readily available. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Wald 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. Wald. 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 exactly does an Internist (Internal Medicine Specialist) do?

An Internist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing complex diseases primarily in adults. They are experts in managing conditions affecting multiple organ systems (Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol), Thyroid Disorders), handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.

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

While diagnosing and managing diseases like Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders or Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is crucial, Dr. Wald 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 (Chronic Respiratory Diseases), and participation in meaningful activities.

How does a Geriatrician's role differ?

A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss (Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization), and polypharmacy (multiple medications). Dr. Wald, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. He often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.

Hospital for Sick Children
30 Bond Street
Toronto, ON M5B 1W8

Phone: (416) 867-3703 | Fax: (416) 593-6275

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Wald 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/Wald-Ron/0161931-73865