Dr. Ru-Chie Ho – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Oshawa, ON

As an experienced Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), Dr. Ru-Chie Ho offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing at a clinic in Oshawa, ON, he serves the local community with a focus on providing high-quality ENT care. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Ho’s role encompasses a broad spectrum of general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing both adult and pediatric patients with conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related head and neck structures.

Dr. Ho graduated with a Medical Degree from National Taiwan University in 1966 and has been practicing as a specialist in Otolaryngology for over 51 years since 1973. He is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, ensuring he maintains the highest standards of clinical expertise and ethical practice.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Ho is committed to providing personalized, comprehensive ENT care in Oshawa, fostering a respectful and reassuring environment for his patients. He is fluent in English and Mandarin, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations.

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

Common Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Conditions

• Vocal Cord Nodules, Polyps, Cysts & Granulomas: Benign growths or lesions on the vocal cords that can cause hoarseness and other voice problems, often related to voice overuse or irritation.
• Acute & Chronic Tonsillitis / Adenoiditis (Recurrent): Inflammation or infection of the tonsils or adenoids, which can be recurrent and cause sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or breathing issues.
• Leukoplakia / Erythroplakia of the Larynx (Precancerous Lesions): White (leukoplakia) or red (erythroplakia) patches on the vocal cords that may indicate precancerous changes.
• Dysphagia (Swallowing Difficulties): Difficulty or pain when swallowing foods or liquids, which can stem from various problems in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.

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.

Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Aspects

• Protruding Ears requiring Otoplasty: Ears that stick out prominently from the head, which can be surgically corrected (otoplasty) for improved appearance.
• Cosmetic Nasal Concerns requiring Rhinoplasty: Dissatisfaction with the aesthetic appearance of the nose, which can be addressed with surgical reshaping (rhinoplasty).
• Facial Bone Fractures (Nasal, Orbital, Maxillary, Mandibular): Breaks in the bones of the face, such as the nose, eye sockets, cheekbones, or jaw, typically resulting from trauma.

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. Ru-Chie Ho or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
• 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. Ho 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. Ho'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. Ho's practice is primarily based at a modern clinic in the Lakeview and Farewell neighborhoods of Oshawa, ON. The location is conveniently situated near the Donevan Recreation Complex and Oshawa Executive Airport, making it accessible for patients traveling from various parts of the region. Patients can reach the clinic via Durham Region Transit (DRT), which provides reliable public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient and secure parking options for visitors.

Are services from Dr. Ho, 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. Ho 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. Ho, 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. Ho. 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.

What kind of post-operative care instructions can I expect after an ENT surgery?

Post-operative care instructions will be specific to the type of surgery performed. Generally, they may include information on pain management, diet restrictions (e.g., soft foods after tonsillectomy), activity limitations, wound care (if applicable), use of medications (like antibiotics or pain relievers), nasal saline rinses (after sinus surgery), and signs of potential complications to watch for. You will also be given follow-up appointment details. It's crucial to follow these instructions carefully for optimal healing.

What is the typical recovery time for common ENT surgeries like tonsillectomy or sinus surgery?

Recovery times vary depending on the specific surgery and the individual patient. For a tonsillectomy, expect a sore throat for 1-2 weeks, with gradual improvement. For endoscopic sinus surgery, most people feel significantly better within 1-2 weeks, but some nasal stuffiness or drainage can persist for a bit longer, and full healing can take a few months. Dr. Ho will provide detailed post-operative instructions and discuss the expected recovery period for your specific procedure.

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.

How can Dr. Ho help with snoring and sleep apnea?

Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are often caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose or throat. Dr. Ho, an ENT specialist, can perform a thorough examination to identify the areas of obstruction (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue base, elongated soft palate). Depending on the findings, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (weight loss, positional therapy), CPAP therapy (often managed by a sleep physician), oral appliances, or surgical procedures aimed at improving airway patency. Examples include septoplasty, tonsillectomy, UPPP, or Inspire therapy in select cases.

11 Gibb Street
Oshawa, ON L1H 2J9

Phone: (905) 579-1212 | Fax: (905) 579-2021

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Ho 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/Ho-RuChie/0019740-24528