Dr. Laura Anne Forrest

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

Adult Common Health Issues

• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Investigating causes of anemia (e.g., symptoms like fatigue, pallor, dyspnea on exertion, dizziness, palpitations, restless legs) through thorough history (diet, medications, menstrual history, GI symptoms), physical examination, and targeted blood tests (Complete Blood Count - CBC with differential and red cell indices, iron studies including ferritin, serum vitamin B12, serum folate, reticulocyte count, LDH, bilirubin if hemolysis suspected).
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Symptom Management & Monitoring: Management includes lifestyle advice (fluid management, avoiding bladder irritants), behavioral therapies (timed voiding), and prescription of medications such as alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin, alfuzosin) to relax prostate/bladder neck muscles, or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride) to shrink prostate volume. Monitoring for symptom improvement and medication side effects.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Primary care approach to common, non-sight-threatening eye discomforts.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Providing initial management strategies for RLS, including lifestyle modifications (e.g., regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, avoiding caffeine/alcohol close to bedtime), checking and correcting iron deficiency (ferritin levels), and considering pharmacological options (e.g., dopamine agonists like pramipexole/ropinirole, gabapentin enacarbil) for moderate to severe, frequent symptoms that significantly impact sleep or quality of life. Referral to neurology or sleep specialist for complex or refractory cases.

Common Acute Conditions

• 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.
• Common Acute Skin Conditions (Rashes, Infections, Bites, Minor Burns): Diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of common acute skin issues including cellulitis (mild, uncomplicated), fungal infections (e.g., athlete's foot, ringworm, candidiasis), allergic rashes (e.g., hives, contact dermatitis), impetigo, shingles (herpes zoster), insect bites/stings with significant local reactions, and minor superficial burns.
• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Management of acute migraine episodes or severe tension headaches, including advice on abortive medications, lifestyle adjustments during an attack, and strategies for future prevention.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: A first point of contact for work-related or activity-induced repetitive strain injuries, guiding effective conservative management, facilitating return to function, and providing documentation for workplace accommodations if necessary. Referral to specialists (e.g., sports medicine, orthopedics, physiatry) if symptoms are persistent, severe, or require further investigation/intervention.
• Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Assessment and management of non-specific (mechanical) low back pain and neck pain, which accounts for the majority of spinal pain presentations. This includes taking a thorough history, performing a focused physical examination to rule out 'red flag' conditions (e.g., fracture, infection, malignancy, cauda equina syndrome), providing reassurance about the generally favorable prognosis of acute pain, and advising on pain relief (acetaminophen, NSAIDs, short-term muscle relaxants if severe spasm), maintaining activity as tolerated (avoiding prolonged bed rest), heat/cold application, and self-care strategies. For subacute or chronic pain, emphasis on active therapies (exercise, physiotherapy referral), addressing psychosocial factors (yellow flags), and promoting functional restoration.
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Often co-managed with or referred to rheumatology, especially for atypical presentations, diagnostic uncertainty, difficulty tapering corticosteroids, frequent relapses, or suspected GCA. Primary care plays a key role in ongoing monitoring, patient education, and supportive care for PMR.

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

• Sexually Transmitted & Blood-Borne Infection (STBBI) Screening, Counseling & Treatment: Confidential screening for common STBBIs (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B/C) based on risk factors and guidelines. Includes counseling on prevention, safe practices, partner notification if applicable, and providing treatment for common STIs.
• Cancer Screening Coordination (Cervical, Breast, Colorectal, Prostate, Lung - as per guidelines): Providing guidance on, ordering, and interpreting results for essential cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests, HPV testing, mammograms, fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) for colon cancer, PSA discussions for prostate cancer, low-dose CT for lung cancer in high-risk individuals) based on current evidence-based guidelines.
• Osteoporosis Screening, Prevention & Management: Helping patients reduce their risk of fragility fractures through comprehensive bone health management.
• Primary Care for Overuse & Repetitive Strain Injuries: Diagnosing and managing conditions resulting from repetitive stress or overuse, such as tendinopathies (e.g., tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, Achilles tendinopathy), plantar fasciitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome (initial management).
• Hospital Discharge Follow-Up & Transitions of Care Management: Supporting patients post-hospitalization with continuity of care, clear communication with hospital teams, and proactive management to prevent complications, reduce readmissions, and optimize recovery.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Forrest. 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 MAHC Hospital, 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. Forrest frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr. Forrest's care for wanting to discuss fertility concerns or get initial advice before trying to conceive is designed to result in their elderly family member maintaining their cherished independence and dignity for a longer period due to Dr. Forrest's comprehensive focus on geriatric syndromes, functional assessment, fall prevention, and medication safety, so patients can resume activities such as consistently driving safely, alertly, and comfortably for all necessary daily errands, regular commuting to work or school, or for longer leisure trips and family visits, without physical strain or cognitive impairment with confidence.
• The path to wellness when facing questions or concerns about their child's growth, developmental milestones, or specific behaviors involves working towards finding effective, practical, and often simple solutions for common but persistently bothersome issues like recurrent allergies, chronic skin rashes, or disruptive digestive upset, expertly guided by Dr. Forrest. Dr. Forrest guides patients so they can again enjoy simply and thankfully getting through each and every day without their physical or mental health being a primary, constant source of pervasive worry, nagging discomfort, significant functional limitation, or a barrier to their desired activities.
• Managing needing advice on managing their child's ADHD medication or school accommodations effectively is a priority for Dr. Forrest. The aim is 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. Forrest, fostering a strong sense of health literacy and shared understanding, which helps patients get back to enjoying diligently learning a new foreign language, mastering a complex musical instrument, or developing a sophisticated artistic skill that requires significant focus, patience, dexterity, and long-term dedication.
• If needing a tetanus booster after stepping on something rusty has put actively and successfully participating in continuing education programs, challenging professional development courses, or confidently pursuing new and exciting career opportunities with sustained vigor, focus, and good health on hold, Dr. Forrest works with patients toward feeling significantly more comfortable, markedly less anxious, and substantially more trusting about visiting the doctor and engaging with the healthcare system due to the consistently positive, supportive, and long-standing therapeutic relationship they have established with Dr. Forrest, helping them regain their previous level of function.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Forrest, 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. Forrest's practice at MAHC Hospital is situated in a family medical practice in the central Clarence-Rockland neighborhood of Clarence-Rockland. 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.

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 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 suitable 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.

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 OHIP for eligible Ontario 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 MAHC Hospital if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

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

The recommended frequency for check-ups varies based on your age, health, medical conditions, and risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need less frequent check-ups (e.g., every 2-5 years), while children, older adults (e.g., annually over 65), or those with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits. Dr. Forrest will help determine the right schedule for your preventative care.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a family doctor like Dr. Forrest?

With Dr. Forrest, preventative care involves proactive steps to maintain your health and prevent future illness. This includes immunizations, disease screenings, discussions about lifestyle modifications, and regular health assessments. Dr. Forrest creates a personalized prevention plan.

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

A family doctor (in Ontario) is a physician trained in family medicine. They provide continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions, offering health education, and acting as your advocate within the healthcare system.

MAHC Hospital
2741 Chamberland Street
Clarence-Rockland, ON, K4K 0B4

Phone: (613) 446-7677

Dr. Laura Anne Forrest 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: 132056

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Forrest-Laura-Anne/0334474-132056

Family doctors like Dr. Forrest 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.