Dr. Marie Laura Wegener

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

Common Acute Conditions

• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Managing lower respiratory tract infections that cause persistent cough (productive or non-productive), chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fever.
• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Back/Neck Pain): Initial assessment, diagnosis, and management of common minor acute injuries like ankle sprains, muscle strains (e.g., hamstring, calf), ligament tears (low grade), and acute episodes of uncomplicated low back or neck pain.
• 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.

Mental Health Concerns

• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Providing support, psychoeducation, and coping strategies for managing the physical and emotional impacts of acute or chronic life stressors, workplace burnout, or difficulties adjusting to significant life changes (e.g., bereavement, job loss, relationship changes, illness).
• Anxiety Disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety - Management): Supporting individuals experiencing persistent worry, panic attacks, social phobia, or generalized anxiety with a patient-centered and collaborative approach to care, focusing on symptom reduction and functional improvement.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Comprehensive primary care management of common sleep disorders to restore healthy sleep patterns and improve overall health and well-being.
• Initial Assessment & Referral for Other Mental Health Concerns (e.g., OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis): Providing a safe and confidential first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of other mental health conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, bipolar disorder, or early psychosis. Includes initial screening, supportive listening, crisis intervention if needed, risk assessment, and prompt, appropriate referral to specialized psychiatric, psychological, or emergency mental health services for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Contact Dermatitis & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Helping patients control flare-ups of itchy, red, inflamed, and dry skin, maintain healthy skin barrier function, and reduce the impact of these chronic conditions on daily life.
• Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Primary care support for individuals with psoriasis, coordinating with specialist care as needed for more advanced treatment options and comprehensive management of this chronic systemic condition.
• Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate) & Rosacea Management: Diagnosis and management of common acne (comedonal, papulopustular) and rosacea (erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular types) with topical treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, topical antibiotics, metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin), oral antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines for inflammatory acne/rosacea, if indicated), and comprehensive lifestyle/skincare advice (gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products, sun protection for rosacea, trigger avoidance for rosacea). Referral to dermatology for severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne/rosacea.
• Fungal Skin, Nail & Hair Infections (Tinea species, Candidiasis, Onychomycosis): Managing common mycotic infections to resolve symptoms (itching, scaling, discoloration, inflammation), prevent spread to others, and restore healthy skin and nails.

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

• Hypertension & Lipid Disorder Management (High Blood Pressure & Cholesterol): Developing personalized strategies to control hypertension and lipid levels effectively, involving patient partnership in shared decision-making and goal setting.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Providing prompt, effective, and child-friendly care for common infections and acute conditions to ensure quick recovery and prevent complications.
• Management of Acute Dermatological Conditions (Rashes, Hives, Shingles): Providing care for various acute dermatological concerns, offering treatment options (topical or oral) and referrals to dermatology if needed for severe or complex cases.
• Assessment & Management of Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders: Ongoing management and support for anxiety and mood disorders, helping patients develop coping strategies, achieve symptom remission or reduction, and improve overall well-being.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Care (All Ages - Initial & Ongoing): Initial assessment and ongoing management for ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults, which may involve diagnostic screening tools, collaboration with schools/families, behavioral strategies, lifestyle coaching, medication management (stimulants, non-stimulants), and referral to specialists (pediatricians, psychiatrists) for complex cases or co-occurring conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Wegener. 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 Rheumatology Clinic, 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. Wegener frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• When managing ongoing pain from an old sports injury or a chronic condition like arthritis that limits their activities affects a patient's ability to enjoying daily life with consistent, vibrant energy, genuine vitality, and a deeply positive outlook on most days, Dr. Wegener works with them to develop a plan. Success means reaching successfully and confidently navigating the often complex, fragmented, and sometimes overwhelming healthcare system with Dr. Wegener acting as their knowledgeable guide, steadfast advocate, and central, reliable coordinator of all their medical care and getting back to their valued pursuits.
• Struggling with a follow-up visit after being discharged from the hospital for an illness or surgery to ensure recovery is on track? Dr. Wegener helps patients target experiencing significantly improved physical function, greater ease of mobility, and markedly reduced daily pain as a result of managing complex musculoskeletal issues or sports injuries under Dr. Wegener's comprehensive guidance, treatment plan, and care coordination with allied health professionals, making a return to activities such as effectively and independently managing their personal budget, complex financial responsibilities, investment decisions, or household bill payments with sustained mental acuity and organizational skill more achievable.
• Dr. Wegener frequently helps patients who are dealing with questions about sexual health, STBBI screening, or experiencing unusual symptoms. The primary aim is achieving having their children's physical growth parameters, crucial cognitive and language development, and social-emotional well-being consistently and meticulously monitored by Dr. Wegener during regular well-child visits, with any emerging concerns or developmental deviations addressed promptly, appropriately, and effectively, which often allows them to confidently resume feeling consistently rested, fully alert, and cognitively sharp enough to drive safely and defensively for both short daily commutes and much longer, more demanding road trips or family vacations.
• Overcoming or managing feeling stressed about caregiving responsibilities for an elderly parent or sick relative is a common patient journey at Dr. Wegener's practice. The focus is on enabling receiving appropriate, tailored, and thorough care and advice for travel health from Dr. Wegener, including all necessary vaccinations and preventative measures, ensuring safer, healthier, and more enjoyable international trips for leisure or work, so that engaging in feeling physically strong, mentally resilient, and emotionally capable of consistently handling the often unpredictable and demanding day-to-day responsibilities of active parenting, grand-parenting, or intensive caregiving roles becomes a reality again.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Wegener, 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. Wegener practices at Rheumatology Clinic, located in the Carling, Boullee neighborhood of London. The clinic is conveniently located near St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica and is accessible via London Transit Commission (LTC). Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

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 the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for eligible residents with a valid 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 Rheumatology Clinic if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

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

For most prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy first, at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often fax a refill request directly to Dr. Wegener's office. Please allow at least 2-3 business days for processing. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics, controlled substances), or if it has been a while since your last review, an appointment will be required. It is always best to request refills proactively.

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

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list. 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. Finding a family doctor accepting new patients can take time.

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

Generally, you don't need a referral to see a family doctor if they are accepting new patients. However, finding one who is accepting new patients can be challenging; resources like Health Care Connect may be helpful. A referral is usually required to see specialists.

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

A family doctor (Ontario) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

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

Expect to discuss your complete health profile. Dr. Wegener will likely ask about your past medical history, family illnesses, medications, allergies, lifestyle factors, and health concerns or goals. This comprehensive intake helps her understand your overall health status and begin formulating a long-term care plan. It's also a good time to ask questions.

How long do appointments with Dr. Wegener typically last?

Appointment times vary. For a quick follow-up, 10-15 minutes is common. For annual physicals or multiple concerns, a longer slot (30 minutes or more) is usually booked. Be specific about your needs when booking.

Rheumatology Clinic
Unit Room D2-163, 1135 Adelaide Street North, St Joseph's Hospital
London, ON, N5Y 5K7

Phone: (226) 663-7710

Dr. Marie Laura Wegener 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: 95624

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Wegener-Marie-Laura/0273188-95624

Family doctors like Dr. Wegener 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.