Dr. Michel Héreish

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

Pediatric Common Issues

• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Providing confidential, respectful, and age-appropriate comprehensive primary care for teenagers (typically ages 12-18+). Addressing a wide range of issues including pubertal development, acne, body image concerns, sports injuries, mental health (screening for anxiety, depression, stress, eating disorders), sexual health education (contraception, STI prevention/screening, healthy relationships), substance use (screening, brief intervention, counseling), and promoting healthy lifestyle choices (nutrition, physical activity, sleep, responsible digital media use).
• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Comprehensive preventative care designed to support the healthy physical, cognitive, and emotional development of children from birth, building a strong foundation for lifelong health.
• Childhood Immunization Schedule Management & Counseling: Administering the complete schedule of publicly funded childhood vaccines (e.g., DTaP-IPV-Hib, Pneumococcal conjugate and polysaccharide, MMR, Varicella, Meningococcal conjugate (Groups A,C,Y,W-135 and Group B), Hepatitis B, Rotavirus, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Influenza) to protect against serious and preventable infectious diseases, according to current provincial and national (NACI) guidelines.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): A first point of contact and trusted resource for parents with concerns about a child's learning, behavior, social interaction, or overall development, offering support, resources, advocacy, and clear pathways to specialized care and school-based supports.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Diagnosing and managing common viral skin infections. This includes common/plantar warts and molluscum contagiosum (observation, cryotherapy, topical agents like salicylic acid or cantharidin). For Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV - cold sores/fever blisters, genital herpes): antiviral therapy (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) for acute outbreaks or suppressive therapy for frequent recurrences, plus counseling on transmission. For Herpes Zoster (Shingles): prompt antiviral therapy to reduce severity/duration and risk of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), along with pain management. Shingles vaccination advice for eligible adults.
• Bacterial Skin Infections (Impetigo, Folliculitis, Cellulitis - uncomplicated): Prompt primary care for bacterial skin infections to ensure appropriate treatment and avoid potential complications. Severe or rapidly progressing cellulitis may require hospital admission for IV antibiotics.
• Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Initial diagnosis and management of mild to moderate plaque psoriasis, providing topical treatments (potent topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues like calcipotriol, combination products, coal tar preparations, emollients) and lifestyle advice (stress management, identifying triggers). Screening for psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Referral to dermatology for moderate to severe psoriasis (requiring phototherapy or systemic/biologic agents), psoriatic arthritis, or diagnostic uncertainty.

Preventative Health Topics

• Infectious Disease Prevention & Outbreak Management Support (Community Level): Administering vaccinations to prevent communicable diseases and playing a role in community-level surveillance and reporting as required by public health authorities.
• Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Conducting routine medical examinations as required by provincial transportation authorities for driver's license issuance or renewal, particularly for commercial drivers (truck, bus, taxi) or as mandated by age (e.g., for seniors at specific intervals). Assessing medical fitness to drive based on established national and provincial medical standards, including vision, hearing, cognitive function, cardiovascular health, neurological status, and medication review.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Providing personalized, evidence-based advice on adopting and maintaining a balanced diet (e.g., Canada's Food Guide, Mediterranean diet, plant-based options), engaging in regular physical activity (aerobic, strength, flexibility - meeting Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines), achieving optimal sleep hygiene, and implementing effective stress management techniques (mindfulness, relaxation) to promote overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance well-being.

Mental Health Concerns

• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Helping individuals navigate feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and other depressive symptoms, aiming to restore emotional well-being, daily functioning, and prevent relapse.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Comprehensive primary care management of common sleep disorders to restore healthy sleep patterns and improve overall health and well-being.
• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Supportive counseling and practical guidance for stress-related symptoms and adjustment disorders, promoting well-being and preventing escalation to more severe mental health conditions.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Conducting initial assessments and ongoing management for ADHD symptoms in children, adolescents, and adults, using validated screening tools and collateral information (from parents, teachers). Providing psychoeducation, behavioral strategies, lifestyle coaching, academic/workplace accommodation discussions, evidence-based medication management (stimulants, non-stimulants), and referral to specialists (pediatricians, psychiatrists) for complex cases, diagnostic confirmation, or co-occurring conditions.

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

• Comprehensive Periodic Health Exams (Check-ups): Proactive health evaluations designed to detect potential health issues early, manage existing conditions, and promote long-term wellness.
• Referrals to Medical Specialists, Subspecialists & Specialized Programs: Connecting you with the most suitable medical experts and services for further investigation, management, or treatment of complex or specific conditions, ensuring clear communication of referral reasons and relevant history.
• Smoking & Tobacco Cessation Programs & Support: Providing evidence-based resources, behavioral strategies, and relapse prevention planning to overcome nicotine addiction and achieve long-term cessation.
• Management of Common Adult Acute & Chronic Illnesses: Expert management of prevalent adult health concerns to support optimal health, function, and quality of life.
• Sexually Transmitted & Blood-Borne Infection (STBBI) Screening, Counseling & Treatment: Confidential screening for common STBBIs (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis B/C) based on risk factors and guidelines. Includes counseling on prevention, safe practices, partner notification if applicable, and providing treatment for common STIs.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Héreish. 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 Médecin de familles in QC and the ethical and professional standards set by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

At CLSC La Saline, 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 Héreish frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr Héreish understands the impact of concerns about their blood pressure readings being a bit high at the pharmacy machine, or cholesterol levels from a recent screening. That's why treatment is geared towards noticeably reducing their reliance on, and need for, urgent care clinics or hospital emergency room visits for conditions that are now being effectively managed or prevented through proactive, continuous, and comprehensive primary care with Dr Héreish, helping patients get back to making consistently informed, conscious, and positive decisions about their daily diet, overall nutrition, optimal hydration, and mindful eating habits for sustained energy and peak physical health with greater ease.
• For patients where experiencing symptoms of an overactive bladder that affect their daily routine is a concern, Dr Héreish focuses on plans that lead to successfully and confidently navigating the often complex, fragmented, and sometimes overwhelming healthcare system with Dr Héreish acting as their knowledgeable guide, steadfast advocate, and central, reliable coordinator of all their medical care, supporting their ability to effectively and efficiently managing demanding professional work responsibilities, complex household tasks, and personal projects without undue physical fatigue, mental fog, or chronic pain limitations.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr Héreish, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr Héreish's practice at CLSC La Saline is situated in a family medical practice in the central Chandler neighborhood of Chandler. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

How can I find a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC who is accepting new patients?

Finding a family doctor in Quebec who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Quebec (CMQ) website often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list. You can also use the Guichet d'accès à un médecin de famille (GAMF). Asking friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations is also helpful. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also yield results. Be aware that it may take time to find a doctor.

Is seeing a family doctor (Médecin de famille) covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with CLSC La Saline if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

What exactly is a family doctor (Médecin de famille) and what is their role?

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when CLSC La Saline is closed?

If you have a life-threatening medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues that cannot wait until CLSC La Saline reopens, you may consider visiting an urgent care centre or a walk-in clinic. Some family health teams or groups offer after-hours on-call services for their registered patients; please check with CLSC La Saline or Dr Héreish during regular hours to see if such arrangements are in place for their practice. Our clinic voicemail [(418) 689-2572] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

I have multiple health problems. How does Dr Héreish handle complex care?

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of what Dr Héreish does. He will work with you to understand the full picture of your health, help manage various chronic diseases simultaneously, ensure your medications are optimized, and coordinate with different specialists to ensure your care is not fragmented. The goal is to provide integrated and patient-centered care that addresses all your needs effectively.

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

Continuity of care refers to the process where your family doctor, Dr Héreish, sees you for your health needs on an ongoing basis, rather than seeing different doctors for different issues. This consistency is valuable because Dr Héreish becomes familiar with your medical background, your lifestyle, and what's 'normal' for you. This knowledge aids in quicker diagnosis, more effective treatment plans, better chronic disease management, and ensures that your care is well-coordinated across the healthcare system. It's about having a trusted healthcare partner throughout your life.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Quebec if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources, such as the CMQ website or local health authority websites, may be helpful in your search. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

CLSC La Saline
633 rue Daignault
Chandler, QC, G0C 1K0

Phone: (418) 689-2572

Dr. Michel Héreish is regulated by the Code des professions & Loi médicale (Québec) in QC and is a registered member in good standing with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

Registration Number: 90113

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=90113

Family doctors like Dr Héreish 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.