Dr. Vesna Mihajlovic – Internist / Geriatrician | Waterloo, ON

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Vesna Mihajlovic serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Waterloo, ON, she provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, focusing on the health needs of adults, including seniors, within the community. Her approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans and a holistic understanding of each patient's unique circumstances.

Dr. Mihajlovic graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine in 2015. She has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency in Internal Medicine and additional specialization in Geriatric Medicine. Her certifications and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with the latest evidence-based practices.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in clear, educational communication, ensuring patients and their families understand their health conditions and treatment options. She is committed to serving the Waterloo community with integrity and compassion. Dr. Vesna Mihajlovic speaks both Bosnian and English fluently, facilitating effective communication with diverse patient populations.

Dr. Mihajlovic provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Management of Chronic Diseases

• Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
• Chronic Liver Disease: Diagnosis and management of various liver conditions such as fatty liver disease, chronic hepatitis, and cirrhosis complications.
• Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Care for conditions like COPD, asthma, and interstitial lung disease, focusing on optimizing lung function and managing symptoms.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
• Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
• Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
• Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
• Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.

Dr. Mihajlovic 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.

• Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
• Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
• Consultation for Undiagnosed Symptoms: Expert evaluation for patients experiencing persistent or puzzling symptoms that require specialized diagnostic investigation to determine the underlying cause.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Mihajlovic. 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. Mihajlovic'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. Mihajlovic practices in the Waterloo West neighborhood, specifically in the Columbia Forest and Clair Hills areas of Waterloo. Her clinic is located within the UHN Toronto General Hospital network, close to Columbia Lake. Patients can access the clinic easily via Grand River Transit (GRT) bus routes and the ION Light Rail. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Mihajlovic? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Mihajlovic 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. Mihajlovic. 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 does Dr. Vesna Mihajlovic communicate with my family doctor?

Clear communication with your referring physician is a priority. Dr. Mihajlovic 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.

How does a Geriatrician's role differ?

A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss, and polypharmacy. Dr. Mihajlovic, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. She often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.

What happens after the initial consultation?

After your assessment, Dr. Mihajlovic will typically send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations to your referring physician. Depending on your specific situation and the reason for referral, Dr. Mihajlovic may arrange follow-up appointments, order further tests, or transition care management back to your family doctor with specialist guidance. The plan will be discussed with you.

UHN Toronto General Hospital
206-430 The Boardwalk, Department of Anesthesiology
Waterloo, ON N2T 0C1

Phone: (519) 741-5252

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Mihajlovic 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/Mihajlovic-Vesna/0315429-111493