Dr. Michael Lachance – Internist / Geriatrician | Victoriaville, QC

With extensive experience in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Dr. Michael Lachance serves as a trusted medical specialist. Practicing in Victoriaville, QC, he serves the surrounding communities. He provides comprehensive care in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, adhering to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). His approach is warm, community-focused, and dedicated to improving the health and well-being of his patients.

Dr. Lachance graduated with a Medical Degree in 2020 and has completed extensive post-graduate medical training in internal medicine and geriatrics. His certifications include specialized training and ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in his fields of expertise. He is committed to lifelong learning to ensure his patients receive the most up-to-date and effective care.

Driven by a compassionate and community-oriented philosophy, Dr. Lachance strives to offer personalized, respectful care to each patient. He speaks both French and English fluently, ensuring clear communication and a comfortable environment for his diverse patient population. His goal is to foster trust and collaboration in the pursuit of optimal health outcomes for adults and seniors in Victoriaville and nearby areas.

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

Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions

• Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
• Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
• Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.

Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues

• Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
• Perioperative Medical Optimization: Pre-surgical assessment and management of medical conditions to minimize operative risks and ensure smoother recovery.
• Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms: Investigating complex presentations like fatigue, weight loss, or pain without a clear diagnosis.

Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders

• Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
• Adrenal Gland Disorders: Diagnosis and management of conditions affecting the adrenal glands, such as adrenal insufficiency.
• Thyroid Disorders: Management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and other thyroid conditions.

Dr. Lachance 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.

• Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
• Falls Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying factors contributing to falls in older adults and implementing strategies to improve balance, strength, and home safety.
• Frailty Evaluation and Management: Assessing for frailty (increased vulnerability) and developing interventions to enhance resilience, function, and independence.
• Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
• Osteoporosis and Bone Health Management: Screening, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fractures in older adults.

Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Lachance. 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. Lachance'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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

Located near the central neighborhood of Victoriaville, Dr. Lachance’s practice is situated within Hôtel-Dieu d'Arthabaska, a prominent healthcare facility easily accessible to local residents. The area is well-served by public transit options, making it convenient for patients to reach appointments. Nearby points of interest include local shops and community centers, fostering a welcoming environment for patients and their families. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all patients can receive care comfortably. Parking is available at the facility, providing ease of access for those arriving by car.

How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Lachance? Is it covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?

In QC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Lachance are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)) 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) 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. Lachance. 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.

What happens after the initial consultation?

After your assessment, Dr. Lachance will typically send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations to your referring physician. Depending on your specific situation and the reason for referral, Dr. Lachance may arrange follow-up appointments, order further tests, or transition care management back to your family doctor with specialist guidance. The plan will be discussed with you.

When should someone be referred to an Internist or Geriatrician?

Referrals are typically appropriate for adults with complex diagnostic challenges, poorly controlled chronic diseases (like advanced Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) or Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes), multiple interacting medical conditions, or unexplained symptoms. For older adults, referrals are common for geriatric syndromes such as falls, memory decline, frailty, or complex medication management (Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)). Your family doctor can best determine if a specialist consultation is needed.

Hôtel-Dieu d'Arthabaska
5 rue des Hospitalières
Victoriaville, QC G6P 6N2

Phone: (819) 357-2030

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Lachance is a licensed physician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=20043