Dr. Vivek Patil

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

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Diagnosing and managing common viral skin infections. This includes common/plantar warts and molluscum contagiosum (observation, cryotherapy, topical agents like salicylic acid or cantharidin). For Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV - cold sores/fever blisters, genital herpes): antiviral therapy (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) for acute outbreaks or suppressive therapy for frequent recurrences, plus counseling on transmission. For Herpes Zoster (Shingles): prompt antiviral therapy to reduce severity/duration and risk of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), along with pain management. Shingles vaccination advice for eligible adults.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Contact Dermatitis & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Diagnosing and managing various forms of eczema/dermatitis, including atopic dermatitis (the most common type, often starting in childhood), irritant/allergic contact dermatitis (identifying and avoiding triggers), and seborrheic dermatitis (affecting scalp, face, chest). Management focuses on skincare education (frequent emollients, gentle cleansers, lukewarm baths), trigger identification and avoidance, topical corticosteroids (appropriate potency for site and severity), topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs like tacrolimus, pimecrolimus), and antihistamines for itch relief. Referral for patch testing or to dermatology for severe or refractory cases.
• Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Helping patients manage the symptoms of psoriasis (scaling, plaques, itchiness) and reduce skin inflammation through effective topical therapies and supportive care.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Performing opportunistic or targeted skin examinations, especially for patients with risk factors (e.g., history of sun exposure, family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, fair skin), to screen for suspicious moles or lesions that could indicate skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma - BCC, squamous cell carcinoma - SCC, melanoma). Utilizing dermoscopy if trained to improve diagnostic accuracy. Performing skin biopsies (punch, shave, excisional) of concerning lesions or providing timely referrals to dermatology for further evaluation, biopsy, and management if skin cancer is suspected.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing long-term management strategies for chronic gout to prevent recurrent attacks and complications (e.g., tophi, chronic gouty arthropathy, kidney stones), including detailed lifestyle advice (dietary modifications - reducing purine-rich foods such as red meat/organ meats/shellfish, limiting alcohol especially beer and spirits, avoiding sugary drinks/high-fructose corn syrup; hydration; weight management if overweight/obese) and initiating/managing urate-lowering therapy (ULT) such as allopurinol or febuxostat to achieve and maintain target serum uric acid levels (typically <360 µmol/L or <300 µmol/L if tophi present). Monitoring for medication side effects, adherence, and regular serum uric acid levels.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: A first point of contact for work-related or activity-induced repetitive strain injuries, guiding effective conservative management, facilitating return to function, and providing documentation for workplace accommodations if necessary. Referral to specialists (e.g., sports medicine, orthopedics, physiatry) if symptoms are persistent, severe, or require further investigation/intervention.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Often co-managed with or referred to rheumatology, especially for atypical presentations, diagnostic uncertainty, difficulty tapering corticosteroids, frequent relapses, or suspected GCA. Primary care plays a key role in ongoing monitoring, patient education, and supportive care for PMR.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Ensuring your child meets key developmental stages according to age, receives all recommended preventative health screenings (e.g., vision, hearing, anemia, lead - as per guidelines), and appropriate immunizations in a timely manner.
• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Ensuring a healthy start for newborns with regular check-ups, timely interventions if issues arise, and resources for parental education and support.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Providing confidential, respectful, and age-appropriate comprehensive primary care for teenagers (typically ages 12-18+). Addressing a wide range of issues including pubertal development, acne, body image concerns, sports injuries, mental health (screening for anxiety, depression, stress, eating disorders), sexual health education (contraception, STI prevention/screening, healthy relationships), substance use (screening, brief intervention, counseling), and promoting healthy lifestyle choices (nutrition, physical activity, sleep, responsible digital media use).

Preventative Health Topics

• Occupational Health Screening & Advice (Basic Pre-placement, Return-to-Work): Guidance on maintaining health in the context of specific work environments and job demands, and initial evaluation for common work-related health issues.
• Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Objective medical assessments for driving privileges, completed accurately according to regulatory requirements (fees typically apply as this is often an uninsured service). This may involve coordination with specialists if complex medical conditions impact driving ability.
• Health Equity & Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Discussion & Resource Navigation: A holistic approach to primary care that considers the broader social context of health and aims to reduce barriers to care and well-being by addressing SDOH.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Primary care approach to common, non-sight-threatening eye discomforts.
• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Initial assessment and conservative management of symptoms related to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose veins, such as leg aching, heaviness, swelling (edema), skin changes (e.g., hyperpigmentation, lipodermatosclerosis, venous eczema), and uncomplicated superficial thrombophlebitis. Ruling out deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if acute unilateral swelling/pain.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Investigating causes of anemia (e.g., symptoms like fatigue, pallor, dyspnea on exertion, dizziness, palpitations, restless legs) through thorough history (diet, medications, menstrual history, GI symptoms), physical examination, and targeted blood tests (Complete Blood Count - CBC with differential and red cell indices, iron studies including ferritin, serum vitamin B12, serum folate, reticulocyte count, LDH, bilirubin if hemolysis suspected).
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection - Testing & Eradication Therapy: Prescribing evidence-based eradication therapy regimens (typically involving a combination of antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor - PPI) for confirmed H. pylori infection, according to local guidelines and resistance patterns. Providing patient education on medication adherence and potential side effects.

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

• Routine Health Check-ups & Physicals for Adults: Comprehensive care focused on health promotion and disease prevention throughout adulthood.
• Cardiovascular Disease Management (Stable CAD, Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation): Helping patients manage their heart health long-term after cardiac events or diagnoses, focusing on secondary prevention and maintaining functional capacity.
• Referrals to Medical Specialists, Subspecialists & Specialized Programs: Ensuring seamless access to specialized medical care through efficient and well-documented referrals, acting as your central coordinator and advocate within the healthcare system.
• Chronic Respiratory Disease Care (Asthma, COPD, Chronic Bronchitis): Providing ongoing care for individuals with asthma or COPD to optimize symptom control, reduce frequency of flare-ups, and improve exercise tolerance and quality of life.
• Occupational Health Aspects & Work-Related Health Concerns (Initial Assessment): Initial evaluation of the impact of work on health and vice-versa.

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

• Through Dr. Patil's guidance, patients with wanting to discuss fertility concerns or get initial advice before trying to conceive often find they can achieve their elderly parents or relatives receiving thoughtful, patient, dignified, and age-appropriate comprehensive care from Dr. Patil that demonstrably enhances their functional abilities, safety, and overall quality of life in their later years and once again pursue meaningfully celebrating positive health milestones, consistently encouraging check-up results from Dr. Patil, and successfully achieving deeply personal wellness goals (big or small) with a profound sense of accomplishment and renewed motivation.
• For patients where experiencing bothersome symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood swings is a concern, Dr. Patil focuses on plans that lead to their adolescent child receiving confidential, empathetic, respectful, and age-appropriate holistic care from Dr. Patil for sensitive health topics including sexual health, mental well-being, body image, or substance use concerns, supporting their ability to faithfully taking their cherished dog (or other pets) for long, brisk, enjoyable walks in the neighborhood park, through local trails, or along the beach every single day, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions, for mutual benefit.
• If shortness of breath that comes on suddenly or is worse than their usual asthma/COPD is a barrier, Dr. Patil develops strategies aimed at their teenager demonstrating a smoother and more confident transition into managing their own health responsibilities and navigating the adult healthcare system, thanks to ongoing guidance and mentorship from Dr. Patil, facilitating the ability to enjoy successfully maintaining a clean, organized, and uncluttered living space that actively contributes to their sense of calm, mental clarity, physical safety, and overall feelings of well-being at home.
• Dr. Patil assists individuals in navigating a persistent sore or ulcer in their mouth that isn't healing. A successful outcome, like benefiting from seamlessly and efficiently coordinated care, where Dr. Patil actively and effectively liaises with other healthcare providers, specialists, pharmacists, and various community services on their behalf, ensuring everyone is on the same page, means they can get back to successfully and relatively stress-free managing daily commutes on often crowded or unpredictable public transport systems or by car in heavy traffic without significant exacerbation of physical pain or anxiety symptoms.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Patil, 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. Patil practices at a family medical clinic in Toronto, situated in the Christie neighborhood of Toronto. The clinic is conveniently located near University of Toronto (St. George Campus south edge) and is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

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

Finding a family doctor in Ontario who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list on their website. In Ontario, you can register with Health Care Connect. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly. It may take time to find a suitable doctor.

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 health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Ontario if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a doctor who is accepting new patients can be difficult. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario can be helpful. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see most medical specialists.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a family doctor like Dr. Patil?

Continuity of care means having an ongoing relationship with your family doctor, Dr. Patil, and his team over time. It's important because it allows Dr. Patil to get to know you, your health history, your values, and your family context comprehensively. This deep understanding helps Dr. Patil make more informed diagnoses, tailor treatments to your specific needs, coordinate your care more effectively with specialists, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. Studies show that good continuity of care with a family doctor is linked to better health outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and more appropriate use of healthcare resources.

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

The recommended frequency for check-ups varies based on your age, overall health, medical conditions, and risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need check-ups less frequently (e.g., every 2-5 years), while children, older adults (e.g., annually over 65), or those with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits (e.g., annually or semi-annually). Dr. Patil will discuss the appropriate schedule for your preventative care. Regular check-ins are important for early detection and health maintenance.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Patil?

For most refills, contact your pharmacy at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can fax a refill request to Dr. Patil's office. Allow 2-3 business days for processing. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics) or if it's been a while since your last visit, an appointment may be needed. Request refills proactively.

What happens if Dr. Patil determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. Patil determines you need a specialist, he will discuss this with you and initiate a referral. He will send a referral letter to the specialist's office. Wait times vary. The clinic will inform you once the referral is sent; the specialist's office will contact you to schedule an appointment. Follow up with the clinic if you haven't heard from the specialist within a reasonable timeframe.

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

A family doctor, or general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families of all ages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions, providing mental health support, and coordinating care with specialists. Building long-term relationships with patients is a key aspect of their role.

301-565 College St
Toronto, ON, M6G 1B2

Phone: (416) 532-2722

Dr. Vivek Patil 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: 153277

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Patil-Vivek/0343503-153277

Family doctors like Dr. Patil 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.