THE 5 BEST GASTROENTEROLOGISTS IN TORONTO
If you've been experiencing a queasy or unsettling feeling in the pit of your stomach, it might be the right time to consult a gastroenterologist. Commonly known as GIs, these medical experts specialise in diagnosing and treating various disorders that affect your digestive tract. These conditions include peptic ulcers, diarrhea, GERD, gallstones, and even colorectal cancer, which can significantly hinder your daily functioning.
We followed our gut feeling, and more importantly, conducted a thorough review of their track record in selecting these GIs who can effectively contribute to improving your digestive well-being!
THE BEST GASTROENTEROLOGISTS IN TORONTO
How Much Does a Consult with a Gastroenterologist Cost in Toronto?
If you’re a Canadian Citizen or a permanent resident, there’s no fee for visiting a gastroenterologist as long as you provide your provincially-registered health card.Consult with your healthcare provider or insurance company for a clearer understanding of potential costs and coverage options.
How We Chose the Best Gastroenterologists in Toronto
1. Dr. Rupert Abdalian
Dr. Rupert Abdalian is a distinguished gastroenterologist (GI) and general internal medicine (GIM) doctor, with a focus on diagnosing and treating a spectrum of digestive issues. From children to elderly patients, he addresses concerns like polyps and constipation. With nutrition, he takes a holistic approach delving into the very core of these problems such as lifestyle choices and dietary habits.
He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from McGill University Faculty of Medicine. Subsequently, he underwent training in Internal Medicine at the University of Toronto followed by a specialisation in gastroenterology, attaining a Clinical Fellow status.
At the North York General Hospital (NYGH), Dr. Abdalian leads a team known for their expertise, compassion, and unwavering support. Their clinic sees more than 10,000 patients annually for colonoscopy procedures alone for both screening and diagnoses. Through their Colorectal Cancer Program, this includes patients who are at risk of colorectal cancer.
Pros
- Provides proactive and compassionate support
- Collaborates seamlessly with other medical specialists
- Fully-equipped endoscopy clinic
- Up-to-date with medical advances in his field
- Excellent communication skills
Cons
- Few complaints of unhelpful receptionist
Patient Reviews
He went beyond the call of duty in helping me with a complicated case
“Dr. Abdalian is a caring, devoted and competent doctor. This was my experience during an endoscopy as well as a phone consultation. He prepared thoroughly before my intervention and reported back personally to me afterwards. He went beyond the call of duty in helping me with a complicated case. He is one of the very best doctors I have had the “pleasure” to deal with.” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
He’s pleasant, compassionate and speaks in a way that’s easy to understand
“Dr. Abdalian performed a colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy on me. I have never met Dr. Abdalian before until the day of the procedure. Nevertheless, he patiently spent time going over my medical history with me in such details and relevance that even my own family doctor had not done. He’s pleasant, compassionate and speaks in a way that’s easy to understand.” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
2. Dr. Samir Grover

Dr. Samir C. Grover is a prominent GIbased at St. Michael’s Hospital and the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute. Impressively, he holds international acclaim as an endoscopic education researcher and educator.
His influence extends to shaping gastroenterology residency training programs across the country, notably through his leadership of the award-winning University of Toronto Endoscopic Simulation Course at The Grover Lab, a specialised research centre he established.
This places Dr. Grover at the forefront of research and advancements in gastroenterology, particularly in the realms of endoscopic procedures, technology-enhanced learning for trainees, and drug approvals and recommendations.
Following the completion of his fellowship in therapeutic endoscopy at the University of Toronto, he assumed esteemed positions as the Program Director of the Division of Gastroenterology and Associate Professor at the same university, as well as a Clinician-Educator at St. Michael’s Hospital.
Pros
- Runs thorough and detailed diagnostics
- Highly adept with endoscopic procedures
- Congenial and helpful staff
- Leader in clinical research
- Specialises in complex cases
Cons
- Hard to contact for some
Patient Reviews
He ran the procedure like clockwork
“He took my condition seriously, he answered all my questions professionally & competently, he was personable & empathetic. He even explained the limits of what his profession understands as related to my condition, which is a clear mark of a real expert. He ran the procedure like clockwork, he was good to his staff (another important indicator), & even answered my nerdy questions mid-procedure without breaking stride.” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
He’s always listened, been attentive and caring
“Been a patient for many years and he’s always listened, been attentive and caring…and we also joke! He’s even called me after hours and on weekends if it’s something urgent. He’s managed my ulcerative colitis through my infertility process (possibly due to the UC) and now am in my third trimester with my first thanks to his guidance. I also adore assistant Vivian! Stellar team!!” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
3. Dr. Peter Rossos

Dr. Peter Rossos is a distinguished GI, academic, and Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO) associated with the UHN and the University of Toronto. He plays a pivotal role as a bridge between the IT and medical departments at Toronto General Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, and Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. Through this role, he has garnered international acclaim for his substantial contributions to informatics and telehealth.
Dr. Rossos is also an alumnus of the U of T, where he earned his medical degree and completed his residency in Internal Medicine. Later, he pursued specialised training in Gastroenterology with a fellowship in Therapeutic Endoscopy.
Throughout his illustrious career, he has received numerous awards, including the 2020 University of Toronto Department of Medicine Award in Quality & Innovation. His combined expertise in clinical best practices and information technology enables him to communicate effectively with his patients, both within the clinic and beyond.
Pros
- Highly-effective communicator
- Swift and gentle during procedures and interventions
- Stays updated with the latest medical advancements
- Active leader in the local health industry
- Committed to the best patient outcomes
Cons
- Limited availability due to high demand
- Few minor delays in appointments
Patient Reviews
He is a wonderful doctor, conscientious and caring
“I have been with Dr Rossos for many years getting periodical colonoscopies. He is a wonderful doctor, conscientious and caring, simply everything you could expect and want in a doctor. I wish he was my GP. He knew exactly what was wrong even outside his specialty just from a phone call. I am so grateful for his referral.” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
I wish there were more doctors like him
“I was admitted to TGH under the care of Dr. Peter Rossos. I wish there were more doctors like him. He is extremely compassionate, experienced and truly cares about his patients. He carefully listens, answers all your questions and is very dedicated towards his patients.” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
4. Dr. Nikila Ravindran

Dr. Nikila Ravindran earned her medical degree and completed her postgraduate training in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Toronto, where she now serves as a dedicated lecturer.
She began her medical career in Calgary and further honed her skills at two teaching hospitals under the University Health Network (UHN) before committing entirely to Mackenzie Health. Here, she has emerged as a highly valued member, actively contributing to enhancing patient outcomes in her role as the vice president of their staff association. Her active involvement earned her a Kudos President Award of Excellence.
As a general gastroenterologist, she attends to both inpatient and outpatient cases at the Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital, Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital, and her own private practice in Vaughan. Dr. Ravindran is well-versed in a range of endoscopy procedures, including gastroscopies and colonoscopies, ensuring that each patient’s experience is as comfortable as possible.
Pros
- Attentive and doesn’t rush appointments
- Warm and accommodating staff
- Thorough with procedures and follow-up care
- Kind and compassionate personality
- Active in improving their hospital management system
Cons
- Often runs late
- No clinical fellowship status
Patient Reviews
Fantastic bedside manner, very calm and caring
“Fantastic bedside manner, very calm and caring. I have a rare condition that was missed by other physicians, and thanks to Dr. Ravindran’s careful attention, we came to a diagnosis and I got the treatment that I needed. I highly recommend her!” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
So understanding and sympathetic about the whole process
“Dr. Ravindran and her staff made everything so much easier for me today. I was so nervous about the procedure and they were so understanding and sympathetic about the whole process . She and her team were wonderful and Dr. Ravindran herself was so thorough, understanding and had an excellent bedside manner. I never write reviews but I just felt so thankful for her and her team. I highly recommend this team of amazing women!” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
5. Dr. Zane Gallinger

Dr. Zane Gallinger leads the Zane Cohen Centre for Digestive Diseases (ZCC), a hub for clinical research focused on gastrointestinal diseases, particularly with an emphasis on hereditary cancers, Ulcerative Colitis, and Crohn’s Disease. Additionally, Dr. Gallinger holds positions as a Clinical Associate and Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai Hospital, demonstrating his deep commitment to clinical education.
Having completed his residencies in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology at the U of T, he pursued a fellowship in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) at the Icahn School of Medicine in New York, which is also affiliated with the Sinai Health System.
His research interests extend to investigating factors within IBD that contribute to comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease, migraines, and even cancer. This research has also ignited his passion for addressing rare and complex cases, collaborating with fellow physicians to devise optimal treatment strategies for his patients.
Pros
- Strong focus on IBD
- Actively involved in clinical research
- Specialised attention towards complex cases
- Attentive and takes time with appointments
Cons
- Selective of patients
- Hit-or-miss bedside manners
Patient Reviews
He is a remarkable doctor who made us feel so comfortable
“I met with Dr. Gallinger in regards to my wife’s sickness. He is a remarkable doctor who made us feel so comfortable. It has been almost two years since my wife was operated on this recommendation and my wife is fully recovered. Dr. Gallinger still calls my wife and ask how she is doing. In my life of 70 years, I have never met a doctor as compassionate and knowledgeable. I recommend all of those I know with GI problems to consult Dr. Gallinger.” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews
Made us feel that we are in good hands and taken really good care of
“Dr Gallinger is a remarkable doctor who saved my son’s life when he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and his condition was deteriorating. He is truly a remarkable doctor that we respect and trust. We are very grateful for his good care and concern. His high level of professionalism when handling our son’s case made us feel that we are in good hands and taken really good care of.” – Anonymous, RateMDs Reviews