Dr. Carrie Deborah Bernard – Family Doctor | Brampton, ON

Dr. Carrie Deborah Bernard is a Family Doctor. Practicing at a family doctor practice in Brampton, ON, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. Her focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Carrie Deborah Bernard completed her Medical Degree. She brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. She has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. She is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of her practice philosophy include a dedication to preventative medicine and health promotion, aiming to identify risks early and support patients in maintaining long-term wellness; a holistic approach to health, considering the physical, mental, emotional, and social factors that influence a patient's well-being; fostering continuity of care and building long-term relationships with patients and their families, providing a trusted medical home. She provides consultations in English.

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

Common Acute Conditions

• Allergic Reactions (Mild to Moderate - e.g., Hay Fever, Hives, Minor Food Allergy Symptoms): Diagnosing and managing common allergic reactions such as seasonal/perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever), mild to moderate hives (urticaria), minor localized reactions to insect stings, and initial assessment of suspected mild food allergy symptoms. Does not include anaphylaxis management which is an emergency.
• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Back/Neck Pain): First-line care for everyday musculoskeletal injuries, supporting recovery, reducing pain and inflammation, restoring function, and providing referrals for imaging or physiotherapy if conservative measures are insufficient or red flags are present.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs - Colds, Flu, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis): Care for acute respiratory illnesses, including advice on symptom management, appropriate use of antibiotics (only if bacterial infection is confirmed or highly suspected), and guidance on when to seek further medical attention for complications.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Care for acute lung infections, focusing on appropriate antimicrobial therapy when indicated, supportive measures (rest, hydration, symptom relief), and guidance for a full recovery, with escalation to hospital care if severe.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Initial assessment, diagnosis, and conservative management of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction related to repetitive tasks, sustained awkward postures, or ergonomic factors at work or during hobbies. This includes common conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome (mild-moderate), de Quervain's tenosynovitis, epicondylitis (tennis/golfer's elbow), trigger finger/thumb, rotator cuff tendinopathy, patellar tendinopathy, Achilles tendinopathy, and non-specific arm/neck/shoulder pain attributable to overuse.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Recognizing the characteristic clinical presentation of Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) in older adults (typically age >50 years) – symmetrical morning stiffness and aching in the shoulders, neck, and pelvic girdle – often associated with significantly elevated inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP). Initiating treatment with low-dose corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 12.5-25 mg daily) which usually results in a rapid and dramatic improvement in symptoms, thus supporting the diagnosis. Vigilantly screening for and differentiating from Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA/Temporal Arteritis), which can co-exist with PMR (or occur independently) and requires urgent higher-dose steroid therapy and specialist (rheumatology/ophthalmology) referral to prevent irreversible vision loss.
• Fibromyalgia & Other Widespread Chronic Pain Syndromes - Primary Care Diagnosis & Multimodal Management: A supportive, holistic, and patient-centered primary care approach to helping individuals manage the complex and often debilitating symptoms of fibromyalgia (widespread pain, profound fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive dysfunction - 'fibro fog', mood disturbances), aiming to improve daily function, reduce pain interference, and enhance overall quality of life.
• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing effective treatment for acutely painful crystal-induced arthritis, focusing on rapid symptom relief during flares, and implementing robust long-term preventative measures for chronic gout to improve joint health and overall well-being.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Management includes advising on leg elevation, regular exercise (calf muscle pump activation), weight management, avoidance of prolonged standing/sitting, and recommending/prescribing appropriately fitted graduated compression stockings. Patient education on skin care to prevent venous ulcers.
• 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.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Symptom Management & Monitoring: Referral to urology for severe symptoms, complications (e.g., acute urinary retention, recurrent UTIs, bladder stones, renal impairment due to obstruction), or if surgical intervention (e.g., TURP) is being considered.

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

• Urgent Care for Non-Life-Threatening Conditions: Accessible care for urgent health needs that can be managed outside of an emergency department.
• Thyroid Disorder Management (Hypo/Hyperthyroidism, Nodules, Hashimoto's): Comprehensive primary care for patients with various thyroid conditions, including initial investigation of thyroid abnormalities and coordination with endocrinology if needed.
• Osteoporosis Screening, Prevention & Management: Helping patients reduce their risk of fragility fractures through comprehensive bone health management.
• Smoking & Tobacco Cessation Programs & Support: Offering comprehensive counseling, motivational interviewing, setting quit dates, developing personalized quit plans, and providing ongoing support, including prescription of medical aids (nicotine replacement therapy, varenicline, bupropion) to help individuals quit smoking and all forms of tobacco use.
• Assessment of Acute Abdominal Pain, Nausea, Vomiting & Diarrhea: First-line medical assessment for sudden gastrointestinal issues to guide treatment and rule out emergent conditions.

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

• For many individuals, having trouble falling asleep most nights, or waking up frequently and feeling exhausted can be a real barrier. Dr. Bernard's approach focuses on achieving having all their health-related questions, no matter how complex or basic, answered clearly, patiently, without jargon, and in an easily understandable way by Dr. Bernard, fostering a strong sense of health literacy and shared understanding, making it possible for patients to once again enjoy thoughtfully and proactively planning for their long-term future, including considerations for retirement, potential changes in living arrangements, or other significant life transitions, with a strong sense of health security and financial preparedness.
• When joint pain in their knees, hips, or hands that's been getting worse and making movement difficult impacts daily life, Dr. Bernard helps patients strive for experiencing significant and prompt relief from debilitating acute symptoms like severe pain, high fever, intractable coughs, or distressing allergic reactions, allowing a swift return to their daily activities, work, and family responsibilities, making activities such as proudly and comfortably attending their children's or grandchildren's various school events, important sports games, recitals, graduations, and artistic performances without being hindered by physical discomfort or lack of stamina possible again.
• Patients often come to Dr. Bernard regarding feeling overwhelmed by stress from work or family life and needing someone to talk to about coping strategies. Working together, they aim for noticeably reducing their reliance on, and need for, urgent care clinics or hospital emergency room visits for conditions that are now being effectively managed or prevented through proactive, continuous, and comprehensive primary care with Dr. Bernard, making a return to confidently enjoying a varied, balanced, and largely unrestricted diet (unless medically indicated for very specific diagnosed conditions like celiac disease or severe allergies) without undue fear of triggering adverse reactions, pain, or significant digestive distress feasible.
• With Dr. Bernard's care, managing feeling more anxious, worried, or on edge than usual lately, affecting their daily life aims for managing bothersome and often disruptive menopausal or perimenopausal symptoms (like hot flashes, sleep issues, or mood changes) effectively with Dr. Bernard's expert guidance and tailored treatment options, leading to improved well-being, better sleep, and a smoother, more comfortable life transition, empowering patients to get back to what they love, like confidently travelling domestically for weekend getaways or internationally for extended explorations with greater assurance in their health, stamina, and ability to manage new foods, climates, and environments successfully.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Bernard, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Bernard's practice is located at a family medical clinic in Brampton, situated in the Queen Street Corridor East, Bramalea Woods neighborhood of Brampton. The clinic is conveniently located near Central Public School Heritage Building and is accessible via Brampton Transit (including Züm BRT). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

I have multiple health problems. How does Dr. Bernard handle complex care?

If you have several health issues, Dr. Bernard is well-equipped to be your central point of care. She's role includes understanding how your different conditions and their treatments might impact each other, helping you to navigate the healthcare system, and ensuring that all aspects of your health are considered in your overall treatment plan. Dr. Bernard will work with you and other specialists to manage your health comprehensively.

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 also 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 doctor.

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 they are accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be difficult. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario, or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario website, may be helpful. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see specialists.

What if Dr. Bernard works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Bernard?

Dr. Bernard practices as part of a team-based practice, which means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals like nurses, nurse practitioners, etc. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary family doctor, Dr. Bernard, for some urgent issues or routine follow-ups, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This collaborative approach can enhance access to care. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Bernard for complex or ongoing issues.

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 or travel medicine consultations, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific services.

How long do appointments with Dr. Bernard typically last?

Appointment length varies. Standard appointments are 10-15 minutes. Appointments for complex issues or physicals may be 20-30 minutes or longer. When booking, mention the reason for your visit so the staff can allocate appropriate time. If you have multiple issues, you may need to book separate appointments.

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

A family doctor (in Ontario) is a physician who provides continuous and comprehensive medical care to patients of all ages. Their role includes diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing long-term conditions, offering health education, and acting as your advocate within the healthcare system.

366 Main Street North
Brampton, ON, L6V 1P8

Phone: (905) 455-1331

Dr. Carrie Deborah Bernard 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: 71574

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Bernard-Carrie-Deborah/0140012-71574

Family doctors like Dr. Bernard 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.