About
Dr. Saira Zafar is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in London, ON, she serves the surrounding communities, ensuring access to quality healthcare. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), emphasizing patient safety and clinical excellence. Dr. Zafar provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, addressing a broad spectrum of health issues faced by adult patients and seniors.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of the Punjab in 2000 (Pakistan) and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in Canada. Her certifications include specialized training in internal medicine and geriatrics, enabling her to manage complex multi-system health conditions and provide tailored care for older adults. Her educational background and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with the latest medical practices and guidelines.
Dr. Zafar's clinical philosophy is rooted in clear and educational communication, ensuring her patients and their families understand their health conditions and treatment options. She is committed to serving the London community with compassion and professionalism. Fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu, she values cultural competence and strives to make her patients feel comfortable and informed during each visit.
Dr. Zafar provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
Dr. Zafar 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.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment: In-depth evaluation for adults with complex, unclear, or multi-system medical conditions, involving detailed history, physical examination, and coordination of necessary investigations.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Management of Chronic Respiratory Conditions: Ongoing care for conditions such as COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung diseases, focusing on symptom control and exacerbation prevention.
- Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Zafar. 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. Zafar'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).
Located in downtown London within the North London East neighbourhood, Dr. Zafar's practice is conveniently situated near the Riverbend Area. The location is easily accessible via the London Transit Commission (LTC), with multiple bus routes servicing the area. The practice is situated in a building that is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for patients and visitors.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Zafar? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Zafar 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. Zafar. 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.
- Why is reviewing multiple medications (polypharmacy) important?
- As people age or develop multiple health conditions, they often take many medications. Polypharmacy increases the risk of side effects, drug interactions, falls, confusion, and non-adherence. A careful review helps ensure each medication is truly necessary, effective, and safe, potentially leading to deprescribing (stopping unnecessary drugs) and simplifying the regimen.
800 Commissioners Rd East
London, ON N6A 5A5
Phone: (519) 685-8500 | Fax: (519) 685-8357
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Zafar 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/Zafar-Saira/0232449-84897