About
Dr. Douglas William MacPherson is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in St Thomas, ON, he serves the surrounding communities. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that his practice aligns with provincial regulations and best practices. Dr. MacPherson provides expert care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, addressing the unique healthcare needs of adult patients, including seniors.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in 1978 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. His certifications include successful completion of residency programs and ongoing professional development to maintain his expertise in these specialties. This rigorous educational background enables him to offer nuanced, evidence-based care tailored to complex medical cases.
With a professional and clinical approach, Dr. MacPherson is committed to the health and well-being of his patients. He speaks English and French, facilitating communication with a diverse patient population. His philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, thorough assessment, and multidisciplinary collaboration to optimize health outcomes for adults and older adults alike.
Dr. MacPherson provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
- Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Nutritional Assessment & Weight Loss: Investigating unintentional weight loss and malnutrition, providing guidance on nutritional support for older adults.
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
- Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
Dr. MacPherson 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.
- Coordination of Specialist Care: Acting as a central point of contact to help manage and coordinate input from various medical specialists for patients with multi-system diseases.
- Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
- 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. MacPherson. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, he provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. MacPherson'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. MacPherson’s practice is situated near the central neighborhood of St Thomas, Ontario, within the facilities of Victoria Hospital LHSC. The location is conveniently accessible via local public transit options, with nearby points of interest including shopping centers and community centers. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. MacPherson? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?
- In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. MacPherson 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. MacPherson. 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.
- What happens after the initial consultation?
- After your assessment, Dr. MacPherson 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. MacPherson 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.
- Why is reviewing multiple medications (polypharmacy) important?
- As people age or develop multiple health conditions, they often take many medications. Polypharmacy increases the risk of side effects, drug interactions, falls, confusion, and non-adherence. A careful review helps ensure each medication is truly necessary, effective, and safe, potentially leading to deprescribing (stopping unnecessary drugs) and simplifying the regimen.
- Is Dr. MacPherson affiliated with a specific hospital?
- Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. MacPherson may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Victoria Hospital LHSC or other local hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. Please confirm details with the office if needed.
- How long should I expect my appointment to last?
- Initial consultations with Dr. MacPherson are comprehensive and typically require more time, often ranging from 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the complexity of your medical history and concerns. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter. We recommend allowing ample time for your visit, including check-in and potential waiting periods.
Victoria Hospital LHSC
Room B1- 141, 189 Elm Street, Department of Paediatrics Tower B
St Thomas, ON N1G 2K7
Phone: (519) 631-1380 | Fax: (519) 207-9200
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. MacPherson 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/MacPherson-Douglas-William/0026910-31733