Dr. François Charest – Family Doctor | Lac-Aux-Sables, QC

Dr. François Charest is a Médecin de famille. Practicing at Ressources Intermédiaires Sud Lanaudière in Lac-Aux-Sables, QC, he is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. His 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. He serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. François Charest completed his Family Medicine (2010), 1987. He brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. He has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. He is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of his practice philosophy include fostering continuity of care and building long-term relationships with patients and their families, providing a trusted medical home; a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care; a strong belief in patient-centered care, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, values, and circumstances. He offers consultations in French.

Dr. François Charest 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

• Benign Skin Lesion Assessment & Management (Skin Tags, Seborrheic Keratoses, Cysts, Lipomas): Differentiating between benign and potentially suspicious skin lesions is a key role, with prompt biopsy or referral to dermatology if any features suggest skin cancer (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).
• 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.
• Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate) & Rosacea Management: Personalized treatment plans for acne and rosacea based on severity, skin type, patient preference, and potential impact on self-esteem.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Helping patients manage the uncomfortable sensations and sleep disruption associated with RLS.
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection - Testing & Eradication Therapy: Testing for Helicobacter pylori infection in appropriate clinical contexts (e.g., patients with peptic ulcer disease, certain types of gastritis, dyspepsia in high-prevalence areas, or family history of gastric cancer) using non-invasive methods like urea breath test, stool antigen test, or serology (less reliable for active infection).
• 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.

Preventative Health Topics

• 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.
• Infectious Disease Prevention & Outbreak Management Support (Community Level): Administering vaccinations to prevent communicable diseases and playing a role in community-level surveillance and reporting as required by public health authorities.
• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Collaboratively discussing healthy weight goals based on BMI, waist circumference, body composition, and overall health status. Providing guidance on evidence-based strategies for weight management including balanced nutrition (calorie awareness, portion control, whole foods), mindful eating, regular physical activity, behavioral strategies (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, addressing emotional eating, sleep optimization), and addressing underlying factors contributing to weight issues. Medical options (pharmacotherapy like GLP-1 agonists, orlistat; bariatric surgery referral) may be discussed if appropriate based on guidelines and individual clinical assessment.

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

• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Infections (Respiratory, Urinary, Skin, GI): Assessing and treating acute conditions like common colds, influenza (flu), sore throats (including strep throat), ear infections (otitis media), sinus infections, bronchitis, uncomplicated pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), skin infections (e.g., cellulitis, impetigo), and gastroenteritis.
• Grief, Loss & Bereavement Counseling (Initial Supportive Care): Offering compassionate support, active listening, and initial counseling for individuals experiencing grief due to the loss of loved ones, significant life transitions, or other forms of bereavement.
• Evaluation of Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains): Managing common injuries sustained during sports, work, or daily life, with appropriate follow-up and rehabilitation guidance.
• Chronic Respiratory Disease Care (Asthma, COPD, Chronic Bronchitis): Support and treatment for chronic lung diseases, including referrals for pulmonary rehabilitation and specialist care when indicated.
• Coordination with Allied Health Professionals & Community Health Services: Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide holistic, patient-centered care that addresses all aspects of your physical, mental, and social well-being.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Charest. 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 Médecin de familles in QC and the ethical and professional standards set by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

At Ressources Intermédiaires Sud Lanaudière, 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 Charest frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr Charest frequently helps patients who are dealing with feeling very irritable or having mood swings that are out of character. The primary aim is achieving ensuring their children, from infancy through adolescence, received the complete schedule of timely and appropriate immunizations, effectively protecting them from a wide range of preventable and potentially serious childhood diseases, which often allows them to confidently resume regularly attending and actively participating in religious services, meaningful cultural events, important community group meetings, or engaging hobby clubs, feeling socially connected, included, and valued.
• Patients experiencing that persistent, dry cough that just won't seem to go away after a cold often seek Dr Charest's help to improve their quality of life. A key goal is 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, supporting their return to activities like 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.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr Charest, 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. Charest's practice at Ressources Intermédiaires Sud Lanaudière is situated in a family medical practice in the central Lac-Aux-Sables neighborhood of Lac-Aux-Sables. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

What exactly is a family doctor (Médecin de famille) and what is their role?

Your family doctor (QC) is your primary healthcare provider, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues, from newborns to seniors. He manages acute illnesses and injuries, oversees the care of long-term chronic diseases, provides routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling, administers vaccinations, and ensures you get access to specialized medical services through referrals when needed. The continuity of care he provides, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC?

Generally, you don't need a referral to see a family doctor in Quebec if they are accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like the "Guichet d'accès à un médecin de famille (GAMF)" may be helpful. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see specialists.

Is seeing a family doctor (Médecin de famille) covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by RAMQ for eligible residents with a valid health card. However, some services, like cosmetic procedures or sick notes, may not be covered and might have a fee. Please confirm with Ressources Intermédiaires Sud Lanaudière for specifics.

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

Your first visit will involve a discussion of your health history, current medications, and any health issues. Dr Charest will want to understand your needs. A physical exam may be included, or scheduled separately.

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

Check-up frequency depends on your age, health, and risk factors. Healthy younger adults may need check-ups less frequently, while older adults or those with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits. Discuss your individual needs with Dr Charest to determine the appropriate schedule for your preventative care.

How can I find a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC who is accepting new patients?

Check the website of the Collège des médecins du Québec, which may have a "Find a Doctor" tool. You can also use the Guichet d'accès à un médecin de famille (GAMF), ask for recommendations, or contact local community health centers. Finding a doctor may take time.

Ressources Intermédiaires Sud Lanaudière
616 Ch Sainte-Marie
Lac-Aux-Sables, QC, G0X 1M0

Phone: (514) 708-5229

Dr. François Charest is regulated by the Code des professions & Loi médicale (Québec) in QC and is a registered member in good standing with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

Registration Number: 87188

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=87188

Family doctors like Dr Charest 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.