Description
About Dr. Sunel Sookdeo
As a skilled Radiologist, Dr. Sunel Sookdeo interprets medical images and performs image-guided procedures, playing a key role in patient diagnosis and care. Practicing at medical facilities in Brampton, ON, he supports various clinical departments. He adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring the highest quality of care. Dr. Sookdeo provides comprehensive services in Radiology to patients requiring diagnostic imaging or image-guided procedures, facilitating accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
Dr. Sookdeo graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of the Witwatersrand Faculty of Health Sciences in 1995, in South Africa. He has been practicing as a Radiologist for over 19 years, since 2005, gaining extensive experience in diagnostic imaging and interventional procedures. He is certified as a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) Specialist, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining professional standards and ongoing education in his field.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes diagnostic accuracy, patient safety, and timely communication of results. Dr. Sookdeo is dedicated to providing clear and informative explanations of imaging findings to both referring physicians and patients. He speaks English fluently and is committed to delivering compassionate and professional radiology services to the Brampton community.
Diagnostic Imaging & Radiology Services
- X-ray Interpretation (Radiography): Expert analysis and reporting of X-ray images for diagnosing conditions related to bones (fractures, arthritis), chest (pneumonia, lung nodules), and abdomen.
- Ultrasound Interpretation (Sonography): Evaluation and reporting of diagnostic ultrasound images for assessing organs (e.g., liver, kidneys, thyroid, reproductive organs), blood flow, pregnancies, and musculoskeletal conditions.
- Fluoroscopy Procedure Interpretation: Interpreting real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) used during procedures like barium studies (GI tract), hysterosalpingograms, or to guide certain injections.
- Mammography and Breast Imaging Interpretation: Expert review and reporting of mammograms (including tomosynthesis/3D mammography) and breast ultrasound for cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan Interpretation: Detailed review and reporting of cross-sectional CT images for evaluating trauma, cancer staging, vascular disease, infections, and other complex conditions throughout the body.
Note: This list provides an overview of common radiology services. Dr. Sookdeo interprets a wide range of medical imaging studies and/or performs procedures as indicated by your referring physician. Specific subspecialty services depend on the physician's focus and training.
All medical imaging services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Sookdeo primarily practices at Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital, located in the Sandringham-Wellington, Heart Lake West neighborhood of Brampton. The hospital is conveniently situated near Historic Downtown Brampton and the Brampton GO Station, making it accessible for patients traveling by public transit. The facility is easily reachable via Brampton Transit, including Züm Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes. The hospital's location offers easy access for patients within the community and surrounding areas. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the hospital premises.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are imaging studies interpreted by Dr. Sookdeo covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary diagnostic imaging studies interpreted by a Radiologist like Dr. Sookdeo are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON when prescribed by your referring physician and performed at an accredited medical facility. Some advanced or specialized interventional procedures may also be covered. It's always best to confirm specific coverage details with Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or the imaging clinic/hospital.
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to have an imaging study interpreted by Dr. Sookdeo?
- Yes, almost all diagnostic imaging tests (like X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasounds) and interventional radiology procedures require a formal request or requisition from your family doctor, specialist, or other authorized healthcare provider. Dr. Sookdeo provides expert interpretation of these physician-ordered studies.
- I'm concerned about radiation exposure. Are X-rays and CT scans safe?
- Patient safety is our top priority. Radiologists and technologists are trained to use the lowest radiation dose necessary to obtain high-quality diagnostic images (this is known as the ALARA principle - As Low As Reasonably Achievable). While X-rays and CT scans do use ionizing radiation, the amount for most diagnostic exams is carefully controlled and the benefit of an accurate diagnosis generally far outweighs the very small potential risk. If you have specific concerns, please discuss them with your referring doctor or the imaging staff before your exam.
- Why might I need an injection of 'contrast' or 'dye' for my scan?
- Contrast material (often called 'dye', though it's usually clear) is a special substance that can be injected intravenously (or sometimes taken orally or rectally) to help certain organs, blood vessels, or tissues stand out more clearly on imaging exams like CT or MRI. It can help Dr. Sookdeo see abnormalities that might otherwise be hidden. Not all scans require contrast; it's used when it can provide important additional diagnostic information.
- What does a Radiologist actually do? Do they take the pictures?
- A Radiologist (like Dr. Sookdeo) is a medical doctor who has completed extensive specialty training in interpreting all types of medical images (X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, etc.) to diagnose diseases and injuries. They provide a written report of their findings to your doctor. While skilled technologists operate the imaging equipment to take the pictures, the Radiologist is the expert physician who analyzes these images to provide a diagnosis. Some Radiologists (Interventional Radiologists) also perform image-guided minimally invasive procedures.
- What is Interventional Radiology?
- Interventional Radiology is a subspecialty of radiology where physicians use medical imaging (like X-ray, CT, ultrasound, MRI) to guide minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis (e.g., biopsies) or treatment of a wide range of conditions in nearly every organ system. These procedures are often alternatives to open surgery. Dr. Sookdeo specializes in these image-guided procedures. Dr. Sookdeo interprets diagnostic images that may lead to referral for such procedures.
Contact & Licensing Information
Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital
2100 Bovaird Drive East
Brampton, ON L6R 3J7
Phone: (905) 494-2120 | Fax: (905) 494-6614
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Sookdeo is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Imaging services are typically provided based on referrals from other physicians.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Sookdeo-Sunel/0235536-85498