Dr. David Lorne Hemmerich

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

Preventative Health Topics

• Health Equity & Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Discussion & Resource Navigation: Advocating for patients facing health inequities and working to connect them with resources that can improve their overall health outcomes and reduce disparities.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Guidance on making sustainable lifestyle modifications for improved energy levels, healthy weight management, better mood regulation, reduced risk of chronic illness (heart disease, diabetes, cancer), and enhanced longevity and quality of life.
• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Supporting individuals in achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight through non-stigmatizing, patient-centered approaches that focus on sustainable lifestyle habits, improved metabolic health, and overall well-being rather than solely on rapid weight loss or restrictive dieting.

Common Chronic Conditions

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - Early to Moderate Stages: Primary care strategies to protect and preserve kidney health, including tight blood pressure and glycemic control, and education on kidney-friendly habits.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, B12/Folate Deficiency - Chronic): Primary care approach to identifying and managing deficiencies or chronic conditions that lead to persistent anemia.
• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol, High Triglycerides): Screening, diagnosis, and management of abnormal lipid profiles (high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides) through lifestyle modifications (heart-healthy diet, physical activity, weight management) and, when indicated, prescription of lipid-lowering medications (e.g., statins, ezetimibe, fibrates, PCSK9 inhibitors) based on cardiovascular risk assessment.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus & Prediabetes: Managing all aspects of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes with personalized treatment plans. This includes regular blood sugar monitoring (self-monitoring, A1c, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) discussion), prescription and adjustment of medications (oral hypoglycemics, GLP-1 agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, insulin), comprehensive diet and exercise counseling, and proactive screening and management of diabetes-related complications (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, foot problems, cardiovascular disease).

Mental Health Concerns

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Providing primary care support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of ADHD, helping to optimize focus, reduce impulsivity/hyperactivity, improve executive functioning, and enhance overall quality of life and academic/occupational success.
• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Providing support, psychoeducation, and coping strategies for managing the physical and emotional impacts of acute or chronic life stressors, workplace burnout, or difficulties adjusting to significant life changes (e.g., bereavement, job loss, relationship changes, illness).
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Helping you identify and address factors contributing to poor sleep, and develop effective, sustainable strategies to improve sleep quality, duration, and daytime alertness and functioning.

Common Acute Conditions

• Gastrointestinal Infections (Gastroenteritis, Food Poisoning): Helping you cope with acute digestive illnesses by providing guidance on oral rehydration solutions, appropriate diet modification during and after illness, and when to seek medical attention for persistent or severe symptoms.
• 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.
• Allergic Reactions (Mild to Moderate - e.g., Hay Fever, Hives, Minor Food Allergy Symptoms): Helping patients manage their allergy symptoms effectively to improve daily comfort and quality of life.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs - Colds, Flu, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis): Diagnosis and management of common viral and bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, sinuses, and larynx (e.g., common cold, influenza, acute sinusitis, strep throat, laryngitis), helping to relieve symptoms like cough, congestion, fever, and sore throat.

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

• Patient Education on Specific Health Conditions & Self-Management: Providing clear, understandable information about diagnosed health conditions, including causes, symptoms, treatment options, prognosis, and empowering patients with knowledge and skills for effective self-management (e.g., how to use an inhaler, monitor blood sugar, manage an action plan).
• Primary Care for Overuse & Repetitive Strain Injuries: Helping patients recover from repetitive strain conditions and prevent recurrence through education and targeted interventions.
• Stress Management, Burnout & Adjustment Disorder Support: Offering guidance, psychoeducation, and practical coping strategies for managing acute and chronic life stressors, workplace burnout, or adjustment difficulties related to significant life changes.
• Assessment & Management of Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders: Ongoing management and support for anxiety and mood disorders, helping patients develop coping strategies, achieve symptom remission or reduction, and improve overall well-being.
• Management of Acute Dermatological Conditions (Rashes, Hives, Shingles): Diagnosing and treating common acute skin problems such as eczema flare-ups, contact dermatitis, acne exacerbations, shingles (herpes zoster), fungal infections (e.g., ringworm, athlete's foot), hives (urticaria), and insect bites/stings with significant reactions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Hemmerich. 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 BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. David Lorne Hemmerich'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. Hemmerich frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• If needing advice on managing their child's ADHD medication or school accommodations is preventing you from feeling profoundly secure, deeply supported, and well-understood in having a trusted, accessible, and long-term medical advisor and health partner in {preferred_name} for any and all health questions, new symptoms, or emerging concerns that arise throughout their lives, Dr. Hemmerich can help. The aim is to achieve successfully navigating the initial emotional and practical challenges of a new, unexpected serious diagnosis with {preferred_name}'s consistent, empathetic support, reliable information, and proactive care coordination through personalized family medicine care.
• Overcoming or managing irregular menstrual cycles, very heavy periods, or unusual bleeding that needs checking out is a common patient journey at Dr. Hemmerich's practice. The focus is on enabling getting timely, astute, and accurate diagnoses for puzzling, unusual, or concerning symptoms from {preferred_name}, leading to the prompt initiation of appropriate treatment pathways and significantly alleviating anxiety and uncertainty, so that engaging in consistently being a reliable, present, actively contributing, and supportive member of their immediate family unit, extended family network, and valued social circles, fulfilling important roles and responsibilities becomes a reality again.
• Through Dr. Hemmerich's guidance, patients with needing a tetanus booster after stepping on something rusty often find they can achieve feeling fully empowered by {preferred_name} to ask pertinent and challenging questions, openly voice their preferences and values regarding treatment options, and participate actively and meaningfully as a respected partner in all their healthcare decisions and once again pursue passionately pursuing their cherished creative hobbies (like painting, writing, or playing music), engaging in intellectually stimulating leisure interests, or dedicating time to new learning adventures with renewed enthusiasm and sustained focus.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Hemmerich, 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. Hemmerich practices at a family medical clinic in Lazo, situated in the central Lazo neighborhood of Lazo. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

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

Finding a family doctor in BC who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list on their website. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also be helpful. There are no centralized provincial programs like Health Care Connect (Ontario) or GAMF (Quebec) in BC.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, 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.

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

Continuity of care means having an ongoing relationship with your family doctor, Dr. Hemmerich, and his team over time. It's important because it allows Dr. Hemmerich to get to know you, your health history, your values, and your family context comprehensively. This deep understanding helps Dr. Hemmerich 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.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in BC if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website, may be helpful in your search. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

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

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

What should I expect during my first 'meet and greet' or new patient intake appointment with Dr. Hemmerich?

When you first meet Dr. Hemmerich as a new patient, expect to spend time discussing your complete health profile. He will likely ask about your past medical history, significant family illnesses, all current medications (including vitamins and supplements), allergies, lifestyle factors like diet and exercise, and any specific health concerns or goals you have. This comprehensive intake helps Dr. Hemmerich understand your overall health status and begin to formulate a long-term care plan. It's also an excellent time to ask any questions you may have about his approach to medicine or clinic procedures.

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

For most prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy first, at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often fax a refill request directly to Dr. Hemmerich's office. Please allow at least 2-3 business days for these requests to be processed. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics, controlled substances, or medications requiring close monitoring), or if it has been a while since your last review with Dr. Hemmerich, an appointment will be required to assess your condition and ensure the medication is still appropriate and at the correct dose. It is always best to request refills proactively.

21 CF Health Services PO Box 1000
Lazo, BC, V0R 2K0

Phone: (250) 339-8267

Dr. David Lorne Hemmerich is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 6199

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/306293/Hemmerich%2CDavid

Family doctors like Dr. Hemmerich 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.