About
Dr. Smita Sakharam Pakhale, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Ottawa, ON, she serves the surrounding communities with a commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care. She provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, ensuring that her patients—adults and seniors—receive tailored treatment that addresses their unique health needs. Dr. Pakhale adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) to maintain the highest level of professional practice.
Dr. Pakhale graduated with her Medical Degree from Nagpur University in 1988, India. She has completed extensive postgraduate medical training, including specialized certifications in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. Her education and training have equipped her with a broad knowledge base and advanced skills necessary for managing complex adult and elderly health conditions.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes clear, educational communication and a holistic approach to patient care. She is dedicated to serving the Ottawa community, speaking fluently in English and Hindi. Dr. Pakhale strives to build trusting, respectful relationships with her patients and their families, ensuring they are active participants in their healthcare journey.
Dr. Pakhale provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.
- Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
- Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
Dr. Pakhale 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.
- Coordination of Specialist Care: Acting as a central point of contact to help manage and coordinate input from various medical specialists for patients with multi-system diseases.
- Management of Geriatric Syndromes: Specialized care for common age-related conditions including falls, frailty, cognitive impairment (dementia, delirium), polypharmacy, urinary incontinence, and malnutrition.
- 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.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Pakhale. 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. Pakhale'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. Pakhale's practice is located in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, and Billings Bridge neighborhoods of Ottawa, within The Ottawa Hospital. The clinic is conveniently accessible from Ottawa City Hall (Lisgar St entrance) and is well-served by OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and bus services. Parking is available at the facility. The entire location is wheelchair accessible.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Pakhale? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Pakhale 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. Pakhale. 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.
- How long should I expect my appointment to last?
- Initial consultations with Dr. Pakhale are comprehensive and typically require more time, often ranging from 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical history and concerns. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter. We recommend allowing ample time for your visit, including check-in and potential waiting periods.
- How does Dr. Smita Sakharam Pakhale communicate with my family doctor?
- Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Pakhale will send a comprehensive consultation letter outlining the assessment findings, diagnosis (if established), and treatment recommendations. This ensures your family doctor is fully informed and can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.
- What is involved in a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)?
- A CGA is a detailed evaluation specifically designed for older adults. It goes beyond standard medical checks to assess multiple domains including: medical conditions, medication review (polypharmacy), functional status (ability to perform daily tasks), mobility and fall risk, cognitive health (memory and thinking), mood (screening for depression/anxiety), nutrition, and social support systems. Dr. Pakhale uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan.
The Ottawa Hospital
501 Smyth Road, Civic Campus
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6
Phone: (613) 737-8899 | Fax: (613) 739-6807
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Pakhale 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/Pakhale-Smita-Sakharam/0182606-76651