About
Dr. Michael Lawrence Buchanan is a dedicated Internist / Geriatrician committed to providing comprehensive medical care for adults, with a focus on complex conditions and geriatric health. Practicing in Prince George, BC, he serves the surrounding communities, ensuring access to specialized internal medicine and geriatric services. He adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), maintaining a commitment to professional excellence and patient safety.
Graduating with an MD from the University of Western Ontario in 1989, Dr. Buchanan has completed extensive postgraduate training and certifications in internal medicine and geriatrics. His education and ongoing professional development equip him with the expertise necessary to manage a broad spectrum of adult health issues, particularly those affecting older adults.
Dr. Buchanan's clinical philosophy emphasizes a professional and clinical approach, prioritizing evidence-based medicine and individualized patient care. He is committed to serving the Prince George community with compassion and integrity, communicating fluently in English and focusing on holistic health strategies tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Buchanan 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.
- Calcium and Parathyroid Disorders: Evaluation and management of conditions related to abnormal calcium levels and parathyroid gland function.
- Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Disease: Diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for conditions affecting bone strength and metabolism.
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Frailty Assessment & Management: Identifying and managing frailty to improve resilience, maintain function, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Falls, Mobility & Balance Disorders: Multifactorial assessment to identify causes of falls and gait instability; implementation of prevention strategies.
Select Infectious & Inflammatory Conditions
- Evaluation of Inflammatory Markers: Investigating elevated inflammatory markers (like ESR or CRP) to identify potential underlying systemic conditions.
- Management of Select Rheumatologic Conditions: Care for common inflammatory conditions such as gout or polymyalgia rheumatica, or initial assessment for suspected autoimmune diseases.
- Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) Workup: Systematic investigation to determine the cause of prolonged, unexplained fevers.
Dr. Buchanan 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.
- Internal Medicine Consultation for Primary Care: Providing specialist opinion and management recommendations to family physicians for complex adult patient cases.
- Assessment of Functional Decline: Investigating and managing sudden or gradual changes in an older adult's ability to perform daily activities.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Preventative Health Risk Assessment: Evaluating individual risk factors for major chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis) and developing preventative strategies.
- Thyroid Disorder Management: Diagnosis and ongoing management of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Buchanan. 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. Buchanan'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 British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Buchanan's practice is located in Downtown Prince George, in the Central neighborhood, within close proximity to Two Rivers Gallery. Patients can access the clinic via the Prince George Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient access for patients.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Buchanan? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Buchanan are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Medical Services Plan (MSP)) 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) 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. Buchanan. 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 is involved in a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)?
- A CGA is a detailed evaluation specifically designed for older adults. It goes beyond standard medical checks to assess multiple domains including: medical conditions, medication review (polypharmacy), functional status (ability to perform daily tasks), mobility and fall risk, cognitive health (memory and thinking), mood (screening for depression/anxiety), nutrition, and social support systems. Dr. Buchanan uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan.
- Is the focus mainly on diseases or also on daily function?
- While diagnosing and managing diseases like Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation or Adrenal Gland Disorders is crucial, Dr. Buchanan also places significant emphasis on maintaining or improving daily function and quality of life, especially for older adults. The goal is often to help patients remain as independent and active as possible, addressing issues like mobility, self-care (Chronic Respiratory Diseases), and participation in meaningful activities.
625 Vancouver St
Prince George, BC V2L 5R6
Phone: (250) 563-7373 | Fax: (250) 563-8741
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Buchanan is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312427/Buchanan%2CMichael