About
Dr. Michelle Catherine Francis is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Francis Michelle C Dr Inc in Nanaimo, BC, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. She adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, ethical, and evidence-based care. Dr. Francis focuses on preventive care, well-child check-ups, immunizations, and the management of common childhood illnesses, promoting healthy growth and development from infancy through adolescence. Her approach is grounded in warmth, reassurance, and a family-centered philosophy, making her patients and their families feel supported and confident in their healthcare journey.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Pediatrician, having met the rigorous standards of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training and certifications reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest level of professional competence and staying current with pediatric care advancements.
Dr. Francis’s clinical philosophy emphasizes family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and a preventive health approach. She collaborates closely with parents and other healthcare providers to ensure each child receives individualized, holistic care. Her dedication to young patients in Nanaimo is driven by a genuine passion to support healthy childhood development, providing care in English with a warm, reassuring manner that fosters trust and comfort.
Dr. Michelle Francis provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
- Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
- Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.
- Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Adolescent Health Concerns
- Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
- Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
- Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Michelle Francis.
- Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
- Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
- Comprehensive Well-Child Visits (Infancy through Adolescence): Regular check-ups to monitor growth, development, nutrition, and overall health, including physical exams and age-appropriate guidance.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
- Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
- Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatrics (Comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. Francis or your healthcare team for details relevant to your child's care.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Francis Michelle C Dr Inc is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Central Nanaimo, specifically in the Departure Bay area. The practice is conveniently located near Nanaimo North Town Centre, making it easy for families to access. The clinic is well-connected with the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit), providing accessible public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, creating a friendly environment for young patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring ease of visit for families in the community. The practice prides itself on being family-friendly, approachable, and supportive of the diverse needs of the local population.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Francis covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Francis are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Some specialized tests, procedures, or medications prescribed by a subspecialist may require pre-authorization or might have specific coverage criteria. It's always a good idea to confirm coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or Dr. Francis's office, especially for subspecialty care. All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Francis, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Francis is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Francis is a pediatric subspecialist (e.g., a Pediatric Cardiologist or Developmental Pediatrician), a referral from your child's family doctor or a general pediatrician is usually required for services to be covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). It's best to check with Dr. Francis's clinic directly regarding their new patient and referral policies. You may be able to book an appointment directly, especially if the practice is accepting new patients, or for newborn care.
- What does a Pediatrician like Dr. Francis specialize in?
- A Pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the health and well-being of infants, children, and adolescents, typically from birth up to age 18. They provide comprehensive care, including preventive health (like well-child visits and immunizations), diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and monitoring of growth and development. She provides comprehensive medical care for infants, children, and adolescents. Dr. Francis is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.
- My child is a picky eater. What advice can a pediatrician offer?
- It's very common for toddlers and young children to go through phases of picky eating. Dr. Francis can offer practical advice, such as maintaining a regular meal and snack schedule, offering a variety of healthy foods without pressure, involving your child in food preparation, and modeling healthy eating habits. She can also assess your child's growth and development to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition and rule out any underlying medical concerns. If needed, a referral to a dietitian may be considered.
- What immunizations will my child receive from Dr. Francis?
- Dr. Francis follows the recommended provincial immunization schedule for BC. This schedule outlines the vaccines your child should receive at different ages to protect them from serious preventable diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), chickenpox, hepatitis B, influenza, rotavirus, pneumococcal, and meningococcal diseases. She will discuss the specific vaccines due at each visit and answer any questions you may have about them.
Francis Michelle C Dr Inc
101-1650 Terminal Ave N, Oceanview Paediatrics
Nanaimo, BC V9S 0A3
Phone: (250) 591-1906 | Fax: (250) 591-1913
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Francis is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Dr. Francis may accept new patients directly for general pediatric care or via referral, depending on clinic policy. Please contact the clinic for information on new patient registration and any referral requirements for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/331909/Francis%2CMichelle