Dr. Sammy Hatem Ali – Internist / Geriatrician | Waterloo, ON

Dr. Sammy Hatem Ali is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Waterloo, ON, he serves the surrounding communities, ensuring access to high-quality internal medicine and geriatric services. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), emphasizing evidence-based and patient-centered care. Dr. Ali's role involves diagnosing, managing, and preventing a wide spectrum of adult health conditions, with special attention to the unique needs of older adults.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 2008, completing extensive post-graduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. His certifications include board certification in Internal Medicine and additional training in geriatric assessment and management, reflecting his commitment to continuous professional development and excellence in patient care.

Guided by an evidence-based and informative clinical philosophy, Dr. Ali is dedicated to personalized care, focusing on the best available scientific evidence and clinical guidelines. He is committed to serving the Waterloo community and speaks English fluently, ensuring clear communication and understanding with his patients and their families.

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

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2): Comprehensive management including glucose control strategies, complication prevention, and patient education.
• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
• 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

• Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
• 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.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.

Dr. Ali 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.

• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.
• Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Ali. 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. Ali'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. Ali's practice is located in the Waterloo West area, within the Columbia Forest and Clair Hills neighborhoods of Waterloo. The facility is situated within Niagara Health and is conveniently accessible via public transit, including Grand River Transit (GRT) bus routes and the ION Light Rail. It is near Westmount Golf & Country Club and Waterloo Park West Entrance. The practice is within a short distance from many residential communities, making it accessible for local residents. Parking is available at the facility. The building is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs.

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

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Ali 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. Ali. 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 are typical wait times for an appointment?

Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly depending on the urgency of the referral, the volume of requests, and Dr. Ali's availability. Our office prioritizes referrals based on medical need. We strive to see patients as promptly as possible and will contact you once the referral is processed to schedule an appointment. You can inquire about approximate wait times when booking.

Will Dr. Sammy Hatem Ali replace my family doctor?

No, Dr. Ali acts as a specialist consultant. Your family doctor (or primary care provider) remains responsible for your routine healthcare, ongoing prescriptions (unless specified otherwise by the specialist), and coordinating your overall care. Dr. Ali will communicate findings and recommendations back to your family doctor.

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, handling challenging diagnostic puzzles, and coordinating care for patients with multiple chronic illnesses. They often serve as consultants to other physicians.

Niagara Health
430 The Boardwalk, St Catharines Site
Waterloo, ON N2T 0C1

Phone: (519) 741-5252 | Fax: (519) 741-5772

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Ali 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/Ali-Sammy-Hatem/0249967-88487