Dr. Lisa Susan Tessler – Family Doctor | Fernie, BC

Dr. Lisa Susan Tessler is a Family Doctor. Practicing at a family doctor practice in Fernie, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) 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. Lisa Susan Tessler completed her MD (University of Manitoba, 1993). 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 fostering continuity of care and building long-term relationships with patients and their families, providing a trusted medical home; advocating for patients' needs within the healthcare system and coordinating care effectively with specialists and community services. She provides consultations in English.

Dr. Lisa Susan Tessler 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

• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Primary care management for common skin infections caused by viruses, including patient education on the nature of these infections and strategies for managing recurrences.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Educating patients on sun safety measures (sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours), the importance of regular skin self-examination using the ABCDEs of melanoma, and encouraging prompt reporting of any changing or new skin lesions.
• 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).
• Fungal Skin, Nail & Hair Infections (Tinea species, Candidiasis, Onychomycosis): Diagnosis (clinical, skin scraping/KOH preparation, fungal culture if needed) and treatment of common superficial fungal infections including tinea corporis (ringworm), tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), tinea capitis (scalp ringworm - requires oral therapy), tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor), cutaneous candidiasis (e.g., intertrigo, diaper rash), and onychomycosis (fungal nail infections). Treatment involves topical antifungal creams/lotions/shampoos (e.g., clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine, ketoconazole) or oral antifungal medications (e.g., terbinafine, itraconazole, fluconazole) for more extensive, resistant, or nail/hair infections.

Preventative Health Topics

• Travel Medicine Advice & Routine/Travel Vaccinations: Providing pre-travel consultations for individuals travelling to common and some less common international destinations. This includes a detailed risk assessment based on itinerary (country, region, urban/rural, length of stay, type of travel); advice on food and water safety, insect bite prevention (e.g., for malaria, dengue, Zika, chikungunya), altitude sickness prevention, and management of common travel-related ailments (e.g., traveler's diarrhea). Also includes administration of necessary routine immunizations (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Flu) and specific travel vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever if a designated center, Rabies pre-exposure, Japanese Encephalitis considerations). Malaria chemoprophylaxis prescription if indicated. Complex itineraries or immunocompromised travelers may require referral to a specialized travel clinic.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Supporting your efforts to adopt and maintain healthier habits across multiple domains of life for a better quality of life, increased resilience, and proactive disease prevention through shared goal setting and ongoing support.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Helping patients find relief from itchy, irritated, or dry eyes through appropriate primary care interventions and guidance.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Primary care approach to accurately diagnosing and effectively treating common forms of anemia to improve energy levels, cognitive function, exercise tolerance, and overall health. Referral to hematology for complex or unexplained anemia.
• 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.

Joint Muscle Pain

• 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.
• 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.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Providing advice on activity modification (relative rest, avoiding aggravating activities), ergonomic adjustments (workstation setup, tool use), simple analgesia (NSAIDs - oral/topical, acetaminophen), ice/heat application, and appropriate referral to physiotherapy or occupational therapy for specific exercises (stretching, strengthening), manual therapy, splinting, and further rehabilitation or prevention strategies.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Tessler. 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: Providing testing, education, treatment, and advice related to sexual health and the prevention and management of sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections.
• Insomnia & Sleep Disorder Management (Primary Care Approach): Comprehensive management of common sleep disorders to restore restorative sleep patterns and improve overall health and alertness.
• Evaluation of Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains): Providing initial care for recent musculoskeletal trauma to support healing, reduce inflammation, and facilitate a safe return to activity.
• Comprehensive Periodic Health Exams (Check-ups): Thorough health assessments tailored to age and gender, including physical examination, review of health history, risk factor assessment, and discussion of preventative strategies.
• Evaluation of Acute Headaches & Dizziness / Vertigo: Providing care for acute episodes of headache or dizziness/vertigo, offering relief strategies and guidance.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Tessler. 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. Lisa Susan Tessler'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. Tessler frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• It's rewarding for Dr. Tessler to see patients with irregular menstrual cycles, very heavy periods, or unusual bleeding that needs checking out achieve accessing crucial mental health support, initial assessment, and evidence-based treatment in a familiar, readily accessible, and completely non-stigmatizing primary care environment meticulously provided by Dr. Tessler and return to important activities like consistently maintaining a regular, enjoyable, and suitably challenging active lifestyle through various forms of exercise, preferred team or individual sports, invigorating outdoor adventures, or mindful movement practices like yoga or tai chi.
• For patients where concerns about memory changes, increasing forgetfulness, or concentration difficulties in themself/themselves or an elderly relative is a concern, Dr. Tessler focuses on plans that lead to experiencing a marked and sustained improvement in their overall sense of well-being, daily energy levels, vitality, and a noticeable, positive enhancement in their day-to-day quality of life and functional capacity, supporting their ability to consistently keeping all appointments for essential preventative dental care, vision checks, hearing tests, and other important allied health services as part of a comprehensive approach to their overall health maintenance.
• The path to wellness when facing feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or experiencing vertigo (spinning sensations) more often than usual involves working towards feeling substantially more in control of their personal health journey, demonstrably better equipped to make informed health decisions for themselves and their family, and genuinely optimistic about their future health prospects due to the guidance and partnership with Dr. Tessler. Dr. Tessler guides patients so they can again enjoy dedicating many enjoyable and focused hours to their beloved garden, whether it's meticulously planting delicate flowers, diligently tending to a productive vegetable patch, or undertaking more strenuous yard work like raking leaves or shoveling snow, without significant subsequent back, knee, or shoulder pain.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Tessler, 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. Tessler's practice is located at a family medical clinic in Fernie, situated in a family medical practice in the central Fernie neighborhood of Fernie. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

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 BC health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes, 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 exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

Your family doctor (BC) is your primary healthcare provider, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues, from newborns to seniors. She 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 she provides, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine.

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

Generally, you don't need a referral to see a family doctor in BC if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. You may find it helpful to check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website or contact local community health centres. A referral is usually required to see specialists.

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

For most refills, contact your pharmacy at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can fax a refill request to Dr. Tessler's office. Allow at least 2-3 business days for processing. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics, controlled substances), or if it's been a while since your last visit, an appointment will be required.

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

Check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website for a 'Find a Doctor' tool. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics. Finding a family doctor may take time.

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

Continuity of care means having an ongoing relationship with your family doctor, Dr. Tessler, and her team over time. It allows Dr. Tessler to get to know you comprehensively, leading to more informed diagnoses, tailored treatments, and effective care coordination. Studies show this is linked to better health outcomes and higher patient satisfaction.

Does Dr. Tessler at her clinic offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr. Tessler offers virtual and/or phone appointments for certain consultations when clinically appropriate. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, or prescription renewals (excluding controlled substances). However, many conditions require an in-person visit. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Tessler if a virtual appointment is suitable for your needs. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with our clinic regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

402 2 Ave, PO Box 820
Fernie, BC, V0B 1M0

Phone: (250) 423-4442

Dr. Lisa Susan Tessler 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: 24304

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/311119/Tessler%2CLisa

Family doctors like Dr. Tessler 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.