Dr. Sandy Errol Shulman

Dr. Sandy Errol Shulman provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Acute Conditions

• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Back/Neck Pain): First-line care for everyday musculoskeletal injuries, supporting recovery, reducing pain and inflammation, restoring function, and providing referrals for imaging or physiotherapy if conservative measures are insufficient or red flags are present.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Managing lower respiratory tract infections that cause persistent cough (productive or non-productive), chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fever.
• Common Acute Skin Conditions (Rashes, Infections, Bites, Minor Burns): Addressing sudden onset skin problems, providing effective treatment, advising on skin care and hygiene to promote healing, and identifying potential triggers for allergic or irritant conditions.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - Cystitis, Pyelonephritis - uncomplicated initial): Prompt diagnosis (e.g., urinalysis, urine culture if needed) and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections such as cystitis (bladder infection) and initial assessment/management of suspected uncomplicated pyelonephritis (kidney infection) to alleviate discomfort (dysuria, frequency, urgency, flank pain) and prevent complications.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing long-term management strategies for chronic gout to prevent recurrent attacks and complications (e.g., tophi, chronic gouty arthropathy, kidney stones), including detailed lifestyle advice (dietary modifications - reducing purine-rich foods such as red meat/organ meats/shellfish, limiting alcohol especially beer and spirits, avoiding sugary drinks/high-fructose corn syrup; hydration; weight management if overweight/obese) and initiating/managing urate-lowering therapy (ULT) such as allopurinol or febuxostat to achieve and maintain target serum uric acid levels (typically <360 µmol/L or <300 µmol/L if tophi present). Monitoring for medication side effects, adherence, and regular serum uric acid levels.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Often co-managed with or referred to rheumatology, especially for atypical presentations, diagnostic uncertainty, difficulty tapering corticosteroids, frequent relapses, or suspected GCA. Primary care plays a key role in ongoing monitoring, patient education, and supportive care for PMR.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Initial assessment, diagnosis, and conservative management of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction related to repetitive tasks, sustained awkward postures, or ergonomic factors at work or during hobbies. This includes common conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome (mild-moderate), de Quervain's tenosynovitis, epicondylitis (tennis/golfer's elbow), trigger finger/thumb, rotator cuff tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, and non-specific arm/neck/shoulder pain attributable to overuse.
• Fibromyalgia & Other Widespread Chronic Pain Syndromes - Primary Care Diagnosis & Multimodal Management: Working collaboratively with individuals experiencing chronic widespread pain to develop personalized self-management strategies, set realistic functional goals, and coordinate care effectively with other healthcare providers such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and rheumatologists (for diagnostic confirmation or complex cases).

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Diagnosing and managing common viral skin infections. This includes common/plantar warts and molluscum contagiosum (observation, cryotherapy, topical agents like salicylic acid or cantharidin). For Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV - cold sores/fever blisters, genital herpes): antiviral therapy (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) for acute outbreaks or suppressive therapy for frequent recurrences, plus counseling on transmission. For Herpes Zoster (Shingles): prompt antiviral therapy to reduce severity/duration and risk of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), along with pain management. Shingles vaccination advice for eligible adults.
• Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Helping patients manage the symptoms of psoriasis (scaling, plaques, itchiness) and reduce skin inflammation through effective topical therapies and supportive care.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Playing a vital primary care role in the early detection of skin cancer, which significantly improves prognosis, and facilitating prompt access to specialist dermatological care when needed.
• Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate) & Rosacea Management: Diagnosis and management of common acne (comedonal, papulopustular) and rosacea (erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular types) with topical treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, topical antibiotics, metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin), oral antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines for inflammatory acne/rosacea, if indicated), and comprehensive lifestyle/skincare advice (gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products, sun protection for rosacea, trigger avoidance for rosacea). Referral to dermatology for severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne/rosacea.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Shulman. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Coordination with Allied Health Professionals & Community Health Services: Referring to and collaborating effectively with other healthcare providers integral to comprehensive care, such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, psychologists, social workers, speech-language pathologists, chiropractors, pharmacists, optometrists, audiologists, and various community support services (e.g., home care, mental health teams, diabetes education programs, addiction services, public health units).
• Fungal, Viral & Bacterial Skin Infections: Managing common cutaneous infections to resolve symptoms and prevent spread or recurrence.
• Management of Common Adult Acute & Chronic Illnesses: Providing continuous medical care for adult health issues, from sudden illnesses to long-term conditions, ensuring appropriate treatment and follow-up.
• Ordering & Interpretation of Diagnostic Imaging & Laboratory Testing: Interpreting test results in the context of your overall clinical picture, discussing their implications with you clearly, and arranging appropriate follow-up or further investigation.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Incl. Sexual Health, Mental Health, Lifestyle): Supporting the unique physical, emotional, and social health needs of adolescents during a critical period of development.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Shulman. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in ON and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Dr. Sandy Errol Shulman's practice, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Shulman frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr. Shulman often sees patients whose experiencing symptoms of an overactive bladder that affect their daily routine limits their enjoyment of regularly and enthusiastically participating in various group fitness classes such as engaging yoga sessions, lively Zumba workouts, intense spin classes, or calming Pilates routines, all at their own pace, comfort level, and for their specific health benefits. The goal of care is to achieve receiving compassionate, understanding, and effective support and strategies from Dr. Shulman for managing a spectrum of mental health challenges including persistent anxiety, significant depression, debilitating grief, overwhelming life stress, or initial symptoms of more complex psychiatric conditions and restore their active lifestyle.
• Patients often come to Dr. Shulman regarding wanting to establish care with a new family doctor after moving to the area. Working together, they aim for markedly avoiding unnecessary, costly, or potentially risky specialist visits, diagnostic tests, or hospitalizations due to the proactive, thorough, and guideline-concordant primary care provided by Dr. Shulman, making a return to consistently sleeping soundly and deeply through the entire night on a regular basis and waking up feeling genuinely refreshed, fully restored, and ready to embrace the day ahead with clarity feasible.
• Dr. Shulman frequently helps patients who are dealing with needing a referral to a physiotherapist, psychologist, or other allied health professional. The primary aim is achieving having their complex chronic condition, such as advanced type 2 diabetes, congestive heart failure, difficult-to-control asthma, or multi-joint osteoarthritis, effectively managed and well-stabilized through a collaborative, evidence-based plan developed with Dr. Shulman, which often allows them to confidently resume meaningfully and collaboratively contributing to important household decision-making processes, family event planning, or shared domestic responsibilities with clarity and fairness.
• The focus for patients with concerns about exposure to an infectious disease like measles or chickenpox at Dr. Shulman's practice is achieving feeling much more confident and competent in managing minor common illnesses at home for themselves or their children after receiving clear, practical instructions and valuable anticipatory guidance from Dr. Shulman, facilitating a return to meaningful activities like fully sharing and enjoying relaxed, convivial meals and engaging conversations with their loved ones without being constantly preoccupied by nagging physical pain, digestive discomfort, or restrictive dietary anxieties.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Shulman, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Shulman's practice is located at a family medical clinic in Weston, situated in the central Weston neighborhood of Weston. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Ontario if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario, your local health authority website, or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario's patient-doctor matching service (if available) may be helpful. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see most medical specialists.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, driver's medicals) may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON who is accepting new patients?

You can check the website of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, which often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list. In Ontario, you can register with Health Care Connect. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly. Finding a doctor may take time.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues, consider visiting an urgent care centre or a walk-in clinic. Our clinic voicemail [(416) 749-5291] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

What if Dr. Shulman works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Shulman?

Dr. Shulman practices as part of a team-based practice, which means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals. While the goal is continuity with Dr. Shulman, for some issues, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This approach can enhance access to care. The clinic will strive to have you see Dr. Shulman for complex issues.

What happens if Dr. Shulman determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Dr. Shulman will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and arrange the referral. He will send your medical details to the specialist, who will then contact you to book the appointment. Keep our clinic informed of any specialist appointments and new diagnoses or treatments.

How long do appointments with Dr. Shulman typically last?

Typically, a regular appointment lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. New patients, physical exams, or complex matters may require a longer appointment (30 minutes). Inform the reception staff when booking.

2550 - A Finch Avenue West
Weston, ON, M9M 2G3

Phone: (416) 749-5291

Dr. Sandy Errol Shulman is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario) in ON and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Registration Number: 21924

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Shulman-Sandy-Errol/0017139-21924

Family doctors like Dr. Shulman are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.