Dr. Lloyd James Duchesne – Internist / Geriatrician | Ottawa, ON

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Lloyd James Duchesne serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Ottawa, ON, he provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care. His practice is dedicated to adults, including seniors, addressing a wide spectrum of complex health issues with a focus on personalized and evidence-based approaches.

Dr. Duchesne graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1992 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training, including residency and specialization in Internal Medicine. He holds certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring adherence to high standards of medical practice and ongoing professional development.

His clinical philosophy centers on clear and educational communication, patient-centered care, and continuous learning. Dr. Duchesne is committed to serving the Ottawa community, speaking fluently in English, and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and compassion in his practice.

Dr. Duchesne provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
• Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
• Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
• Complex Infections Consultation: Providing diagnostic and management expertise for challenging infections, often in consultation with primary care.

Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care

• Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
• Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
• Polypharmacy & Medication Optimization: Expert review of multiple medications to reduce adverse effects, eliminate unnecessary drugs (deprescribing), and simplify regimens.

Dr. Duchesne 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.

• Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
• Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
• Perioperative Medical Consultation: Assessing and managing medical risks (e.g., cardiac, respiratory) for patients undergoing surgery to ensure safety and optimize post-operative recovery.
• Advance Care Planning Discussions: Facilitating conversations about future healthcare preferences and goals of care, including discussions about powers of attorney for personal care.
• Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Duchesne. 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. Duchesne'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. Duchesne's practice is located in the Hintonburg area of Ottawa, close to the Civic Hospital and within the Westboro East neighbourhood. The location offers convenient access to the National Arts Centre (Southam Hall entrance) and Sparks Street Mall, making it easily reachable for patients in the city core and surrounding communities. The practice is accessible via OC Transpo, including the O-Train LRT and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Duchesne? Is it covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

In ON, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Duchesne 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. Duchesne. 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.

How long should I expect my appointment to last?

Initial consultations with Dr. Duchesne 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.

How does a Geriatrician's role differ?

A Geriatrician is an Internist (or Family Physician) with additional specialized training focused on the unique health needs of older adults (often 65+). They excel at managing 'geriatric syndromes' like falls, frailty, memory loss, and polypharmacy. Dr. Duchesne, with expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, applies principles of geriatric care to optimize health, function, and quality of life for older patients. He often takes a very holistic view, considering social and functional aspects alongside medical issues.

Is Dr. Duchesne affiliated with a specific hospital?

Hospital privileges can vary. Dr. Duchesne may have admitting privileges or provide consultation services at Ottawa hospitals. This affiliation allows for coordinated care if hospitalization is required. If you are admitted, the hospital team may consult Dr. Duchesne as needed, or he might be involved in your care depending on the specific hospital and service arrangements. Please confirm details with the office if needed.

40 Ruskin Street
Ottawa, ON K1Y 4W7

Phone: (613) 696-7277 | Fax: (613) 696-7132

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Duchesne 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/Duchesne-Lloyd-James/0051094-65073