Dr. Shankar Nadesan

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

Pediatric Common Issues

• Common Childhood Infections (Viral & Bacterial - Ear, Throat, Chest, Skin, GI): Diagnosing and treating frequent acute illnesses in children, such as otitis media (ear infections), streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat - with rapid testing if available), common colds and influenza, croup, bronchiolitis, roseola, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, viral and bacterial gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea), uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and common skin infections (impetigo, cellulitis - mild).
• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Supporting new parents in caring for their infant, addressing common concerns (colic, reflux, sleep patterns), and promoting bonding and healthy attachment.
• Childhood Immunization Schedule Management & Counseling: Keeping your child's vaccinations fully up-to-date for their individual protection and to contribute to community (herd) immunity, thereby protecting vulnerable individuals.
• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Diagnosing and managing common chronic conditions in pediatric patients, such as asthma (including education on inhaler/spacer technique, trigger avoidance, development of personalized asthma action plans for home and school), eczema (atopic dermatitis - focusing on skincare, emollients, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, trigger management), and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Includes initial assessment and guidance for food allergies, with referral to pediatric allergists for confirmation and comprehensive management if indicated.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Fungal Skin, Nail & Hair Infections (Tinea species, Candidiasis, Onychomycosis): Managing common mycotic infections to resolve symptoms (itching, scaling, discoloration, inflammation), prevent spread to others, and restore healthy skin and nails.
• Benign Skin Lesion Assessment & Management (Skin Tags, Seborrheic Keratoses, Cysts, Lipomas): Differentiating between benign and potentially suspicious skin lesions is a key role, with prompt biopsy or referral to dermatology if any features suggest skin cancer (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).
• 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.

Common Chronic Conditions

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Primary Care Management: A supportive approach to IBS, working with patients to identify triggers and develop effective coping mechanisms.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) & Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) - Chronic Management: Developing long-term strategies for managing acid-related digestive disorders effectively.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis): Helping individuals with chronic bronchitis or emphysema manage their symptoms effectively, improve exercise tolerance, and maintain the best possible lung function through a multidisciplinary approach.

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

• Acne Vulgaris & Rosacea Management: Personalized treatment plans for acne and rosacea based on severity and skin type.
• Primary Care for Overuse & Repetitive Strain Injuries: Diagnosing and managing conditions resulting from repetitive stress or overuse, such as tendinopathies (e.g., tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), plantar fasciitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome (initial management).
• Immunizations & Vaccinations (Infant, Child, Adult, Travel): Providing comprehensive vaccination services according to provincial and national public health guidelines for all age groups.
• Weight Management & Healthy Weight Strategies: Supporting individuals in achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight through evidence-based, non-stigmatizing approaches that focus on sustainable lifestyle habits and overall well-being rather than restrictive dieting.
• Smoking & Tobacco Cessation Programs & Support: Providing evidence-based resources, behavioral strategies, and relapse prevention planning to overcome nicotine addiction and achieve long-term cessation.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Nadesan. 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 Chatham Kent Health Alliance, 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. Nadesan frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• For those challenged by their child needing a physical exam for summer camp or sports participation, Dr. Nadesan offers strategies to reach finding effective, practical, and often simple solutions for common but persistently bothersome issues like recurrent allergies, chronic skin rashes, or disruptive digestive upset, expertly guided by Dr. Nadesan, which can mean rediscovering the joy of independently and efficiently performing all personal grooming and hygiene tasks (bathing, dressing, toileting) without any difficulty, assistance, or associated pain, maintaining their dignity.
• The focus for patients with needing a refill for their regular medications for an ongoing condition like high blood pressure or thyroid issues at Dr. Nadesan's practice is achieving 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 Dr. Nadesan's comprehensive guidance, treatment plan, and care coordination with allied health professionals, facilitating a return to meaningful activities like feeling well-prepared, physically able, and mentally positive for attending and fully participating in significant, once-in-a-lifetime family or social events like weddings, milestone anniversaries, international reunions, or major academic graduations.
• Patients experiencing a really sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a high fever that might be strep or tonsillitis often seek Dr. Nadesan's help to improve their quality of life. A key goal is successfully managing their multiple (often complex) medications with significantly fewer side effects, demonstrably better adherence to the prescribed regimen, and a much clearer understanding of each medication's specific purpose, benefits, and potential interactions, thanks to Dr. Nadesan's careful oversight, supporting their return to activities like fully and enthusiastically engaging in a wide range of desired social activities, valued community events, and spending quality, meaningful time with close friends and loved ones without being frequently limited or sidelined by bothersome or unpredictable health concerns.
• If a minor injury like a sprained ankle from a misstep playing sports, or a small cut from cooking that might need stitches is a barrier, Dr. Nadesan develops strategies aimed at having their unique cultural background, personal values, spiritual beliefs, and communication preferences consistently respected and thoughtfully incorporated into their personalized healthcare plan by an attentive and culturally sensitive Dr. Nadesan, facilitating the ability to enjoy dedicating many enjoyable and focused hours to their beloved garden, whether it's meticulously planting delicate flowers, diligently tending to a productive vegetable patch, or undertaking more strenuous yard work like raking leaves or shoveling snow, without significant subsequent back, knee, or shoulder pain.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Nadesan, 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. Nadesan's practice at Chatham Kent Health Alliance is situated in a family medical practice in the central Courtice neighborhood of Courtice. 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.

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

Absolutely. Dr. Nadesan is well-equipped to address a wide range of mental health issues as part of comprehensive family practice. He 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. Nadesan is a good person to start the conversation with and seek help from in a confidential and supportive environment.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Chatham Kent Health Alliance 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 that cannot wait until Chatham Kent Health Alliance reopens, you may consider visiting an urgent care centre or a walk-in clinic. Some family health teams or groups offer after-hours on-call services for their registered patients; please check with Chatham Kent Health Alliance or Dr. Nadesan during regular hours to see if such arrangements are in place for their practice. Our clinic voicemail [(905) 728-7915] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

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, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with Chatham Kent Health Alliance if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

How long do appointments with Dr. Nadesan typically last?

Typically, a regular appointment with Dr. Nadesan to discuss a specific health concern or for a follow-up lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. However, if you are a new patient, scheduled for a complete physical exam, or need to discuss multiple or complex health matters, the appointment will likely be scheduled for a longer duration, such as 30 minutes. Please inform the reception staff at Chatham Kent Health Alliance about the nature of your visit when booking, so sufficient time with Dr. Nadesan can be arranged.

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

The recommended frequency for check-ups or periodic health exams with Dr. Nadesan 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. Nadesan follows. It's best to discuss your individual needs with Dr. Nadesan 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.

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 sometimes be challenging. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

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

Check the website of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (it often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool). 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. It can be challenging and may take time.

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

A family doctor (Ontario) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

Chatham Kent Health Alliance
1428 Highway 2
Courtice, ON, L1E 2J5

Phone: (905) 728-7915

Dr. Shankar Nadesan 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: 108148

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Nadesan-Shankar/0305160-108148

Family doctors like Dr. Nadesan 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.