About
Dr. Ronald Alexander Fleming Fowlis, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Kitchener, ON, he serves the surrounding communities, providing comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. His approach emphasizes thorough assessment and tailored treatment strategies to address the unique health needs of each patient, especially older adults and seniors. Dr. Fowlis adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe, ethical, and effective medical practice.
Dr. Fowlis graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Glasgow School of Medicine in 1968, in the United Kingdom. He has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including specialized residencies and certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, allowing him to deliver expert care in these fields. His training emphasizes a comprehensive approach to complex adult health issues, with a focus on evidence-based interventions and multidisciplinary collaboration.
His clinical philosophy is centered on evidence-based and informative care, committed to improving health outcomes and quality of life for his patients. He is dedicated to serving the Kitchener community with integrity and professionalism. Dr. Fowlis speaks English fluently and values clear communication with his patients, ensuring they are well-informed and actively involved in their healthcare decisions.
Dr. Fowlis provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- 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.
- Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diagnosis, treatment titration, and long-term management of primary and secondary hypertension to mitigate cardiovascular risk.
- Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
Dr. Fowlis 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.
- Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
- 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.
- 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.
- Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Fowlis. 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. Fowlis'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. Fowlis's practice is located in the Forest Heights area, within the Forest Hill neighborhood of Kitchener. The clinic is situated within Humber River Hospital, providing easy access for hospital-based consultations and follow-up. It is conveniently close to downtown Kitchener and well-connected via Grand River Transit (bus and ION light rail). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Fowlis? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Fowlis 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. Fowlis. 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. Fowlis will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications based on your referral and the information you provide. He will likely perform a relevant physical examination. Following this assessment, he will discuss his findings, potential diagnoses, recommended further investigations (if any), and a proposed management plan. There will be time for you to ask questions.
- Can a family member or friend accompany me to the appointment?
- Yes, absolutely. Patients are welcome to bring a family member, friend, or caregiver to their appointment for support, to help recall information, or to ask questions. Especially for complex discussions or if memory is a concern, having a second person present can be very beneficial.
- Is Dr. Fowlis affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Fowlis may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Kitchener [if hospital data exists, specify; otherwise, keep general]. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Fowlis as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.
Humber river hospital
403-564 Belmont Ave W
Kitchener, ON N2M 5N6
Phone: (519) 742-6062 | Fax: (519) 742-5512
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Fowlis 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/Fowlis-Ronald-Alexander-Fleming/0019704-24492