Dr. Shamila Kamalanathan – Family Doctor | Richmond Hill, ON

Dr. Shamila Kamalanathan is a Family Doctor. Practicing at a family doctor practice in Richmond Hill, ON, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. Her focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Shamila Kamalanathan completed her Medical Degree. She brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. She has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. She is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of her practice philosophy include empowering patients through clear communication, comprehensive health education, and fostering active participation in their own health decisions; a dedication to preventative medicine and health promotion, aiming to identify risks early and support patients in maintaining long-term wellness; fostering continuity of care and building long-term relationships with patients and their families, providing a trusted medical home. She provides consultations in English.

Dr. Shamila Kamalanathan 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

• Gastrointestinal Infections (Gastroenteritis, Food Poisoning): Helping you cope with acute digestive illnesses by providing guidance on oral rehydration solutions, appropriate diet modification during and after illness, and when to seek medical attention for persistent or severe symptoms.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Care for acute lung infections, focusing on appropriate antimicrobial therapy when indicated, supportive measures (rest, hydration, symptom relief), and guidance for a full recovery, with escalation to hospital care if severe.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs - Colds, Flu, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis): Addressing symptoms such as cough, sore throat (including rapid strep testing where available), nasal congestion, facial pain/pressure, and fever associated with common URTIs.
• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Providing prompt care for sudden or severe headaches, offering effective relief, and establishing a plan for ongoing management if headaches are recurrent or chronic.

Mental Health Concerns

• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Helping individuals build resilience, develop adaptive coping mechanisms (e.g., problem-solving, relaxation techniques, mindfulness), and navigate stressful periods effectively to protect their mental and physical health.
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Helping individuals navigate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and other depressive symptoms, aiming to restore emotional well-being, daily functioning, and prevent relapse.
• Initial Assessment & Referral for Other Mental Health Concerns (e.g., OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis): Recognizing signs and symptoms of various serious mental health issues and facilitating timely access to the appropriate level of specialist care and support.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Conducting initial assessments and ongoing management for ADHD symptoms in children, adolescents, and adults, using validated screening tools and collateral information (from parents, teachers). Providing psychoeducation, behavioral strategies, lifestyle coaching, academic/workplace accommodation discussions, evidence-based medication management (stimulants, non-stimulants), and referral to specialists (pediatricians, psychiatrists) for complex cases, diagnostic confirmation, or co-occurring conditions.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Primary care management for common skin infections caused by viruses, including patient education on the nature of these infections and strategies for managing recurrences.
• Bacterial Skin Infections (Impetigo, Folliculitis, Cellulitis - uncomplicated): Effective antimicrobial therapy for common bacterial skin infections to resolve infection, prevent spread, and alleviate associated symptoms.
• 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. Kamalanathan. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management (Early to Moderate Stages): Primary care strategies to protect kidney health, including blood pressure control, glycemic control in diabetics, dietary advice (e.g., protein, sodium, potassium considerations), and timely referrals to nephrology.
• Cancer Screening Coordination (Cervical, Breast, Colorectal, Prostate, Lung - as per guidelines): Proactive screening discussions and referrals for common cancers to ensure timely diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes.
• Skin Lesion Assessment, Biopsy & Minor Excisions (Benign Lesions): Management of common skin lesions, including simple diagnostic and removal procedures where appropriate within primary care.
• Evaluation of Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains): Providing initial care for recent musculoskeletal trauma to support healing, reduce inflammation, and facilitate a safe return to activity.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Expert management of a wide spectrum of acute illnesses affecting infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and teenagers, including appropriate antibiotic stewardship.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Kamalanathan. 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. Shamila Kamalanathan'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. Kamalanathan frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• If wanting to get a baseline ECG because of family heart history before starting a new exercise program has put proactively, responsibly, and knowledgeably caring for their own comprehensive health needs and the diverse preventative care requirements of their entire family, fostering a culture of wellness at home on hold, Dr. Kamalanathan works with patients toward successfully and confidently navigating the often complex, fragmented, and sometimes overwhelming healthcare system with {preferred_name} acting as their knowledgeable guide, steadfast advocate, and central, reliable coordinator of all their medical care, helping them regain their previous level of function.
• When a persistent hoarse voice or a lump in their neck that they are concerned about affects a patient's ability 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, Dr. Kamalanathan works with them to develop a plan. Success means reaching experiencing significantly improved physical function, greater ease of mobility, and markedly reduced daily pain as a result of managing complex musculoskeletal issues or sports injuries under {preferred_name}'s comprehensive guidance, treatment plan, and care coordination with allied health professionals and getting back to their valued pursuits.
• If their elderly parent needing a review of their multiple medications to check for interactions and ensure they're all still necessary is preventing you from significantly reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of sick days from common illnesses for themselves and their children, leading to better attendance at work/school, improved overall productivity, and less household disruption, Dr. Kamalanathan can help. The aim is to achieve having their diverse family structure, unique cultural needs, and individual communication preferences consistently understood, acknowledged, and respectfully incorporated into all aspects of their care by {preferred_name} and the entire clinic team through personalized family medicine care.
• The path to wellness when facing needing a prescription for preventative medication before travelling to a high-risk area for malaria involves working towards feeling truly empowered with the specific knowledge, practical skills, and continuous ongoing support from {preferred_name} to make sustainable, positive, and healthier lifestyle choices regarding their nutrition, optimal physical activity levels, restorative sleep patterns, and effective stress management techniques. Dr. Kamalanathan guides patients so they can again enjoy making consistently informed, conscious, and positive decisions about their daily diet, overall nutrition, optimal hydration, and mindful eating habits for sustained energy and peak physical health.

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

Dr. Kamalanathan practices at a family medical clinic in Richmond Hill, situated in the Observatory, Harding neighborhood of Richmond Hill. The clinic is conveniently located near Richmond Hill GO Station and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

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.

How often should I see Dr. Kamalanathan for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups or periodic health exams with Dr. Kamalanathan can vary based on your age, overall health, any existing medical conditions, and specific risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need a full check-up less frequently (e.g., every 2-5 years if no concerns), while children, older adults (e.g., annually over 65), or individuals with chronic conditions may benefit from more frequent visits (e.g., annually or semi-annually). For specific screening tests like Pap smears or mammograms, there are established provincial guidelines based on age and gender which Dr. Kamalanathan follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Kamalanathan to determine an appropriate schedule for your preventative care. Even if you feel healthy, regular check-ins can be important for early detection and health maintenance.

Can Dr. Kamalanathan help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Absolutely. Dr. Kamalanathan is well-equipped to address a wide range of mental health issues as part of comprehensive family practice. She can help diagnose conditions like anxiety or depression, provide counseling and support, manage psychotropic medications when appropriate, and coordinate care with mental health specialists if required. If you're struggling with your mental well-being, Dr. Kamalanathan is a good person to start the conversation with and seek help from in a confidential and supportive environment.

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

Dr. Kamalanathan practices as part of a team-based practice, which often means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals like nurses, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, or pharmacists working together. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary family doctor, Dr. Kamalanathan, for some urgent issues, routine follow-ups, or specific services, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This collaborative approach can enhance access to care and provide comprehensive support. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Kamalanathan for complex or ongoing issues where that continuity is most crucial.

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

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of ON often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list. In Ontario, you can register with Health Care Connect. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also be helpful. Finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging and may take time.

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

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

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. 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 non-insured services or potential fees.

What should I expect during my first 'meet and greet' or new patient intake appointment with Dr. Kamalanathan?

Your first appointment with Dr. Kamalanathan is an important opportunity to establish care. She will likely review your detailed medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, allergies, immunizations, and family health history. She will also want to discuss your current health concerns, any medications you are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, supplements), and your lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol use). A basic physical examination may be performed. This visit is also a chance for you to ask questions about Dr. Kamalanathan's practice style and for her to explain clinic policies (e.g., booking appointments, prescription refills, communication). The main goal is to gather comprehensive baseline information to provide you with the best possible ongoing care.

A8-1390 Major Mackenzie Drive East
Richmond Hill, ON, L4S 0A1

Phone: (905) 884-7711

Dr. Shamila Kamalanathan 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: 108351

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kamalanathan-Shamila/0303707-108351

Family doctors like Dr. Kamalanathan 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.