Dr. Patricia Sue Lejay – Family Doctor | Richmond, BC

Dr. Patricia Sue Lejay is a Family Doctor. Practicing at a family doctor practice in Richmond, BC, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. Her focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Patricia Sue Lejay completed her MD (University of British Columbia, 1988). She brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. She has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. She is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of her practice philosophy include advocating for patients' needs within the healthcare system and coordinating care effectively with specialists and community services; a dedication to preventative medicine and health promotion, aiming to identify risks early and support patients in maintaining long-term wellness. She provides consultations in English.

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

Common Chronic Conditions

• Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's, Nodules): Adjusting thyroid medication based on symptoms and regular blood tests (TSH, free T4, thyroid antibodies) to maintain optimal thyroid function and well-being.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) & Associated Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Partnering with you to achieve and maintain optimal blood pressure control, thereby significantly reducing your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other related health problems.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis): Ongoing primary care for COPD, empowering patients with self-management techniques and coordinating care with respiratory specialists when necessary.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus & Prediabetes: Proactive, team-based care (often involving dietitians, diabetes educators, pharmacists) for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, aiming to achieve optimal glycemic control, reduce cardiovascular risk, and improve overall quality of life.

Preventative Health Topics

• 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.
• Infectious Disease Prevention & Outbreak Management Support (Community Level): Promoting individual and community resilience against infectious diseases through education, vaccination, and adherence to public health measures.
• Travel Medicine Advice & Routine/Travel Vaccinations: Helping you prepare for safe and healthy international travel with essential medical guidance, ensuring you are up-to-date on immunizations and equipped with preventative strategies and medications for common and serious travel-related illnesses.
• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Supporting individuals in achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight through non-stigmatizing, patient-centered approaches that focus on sustainable lifestyle habits, improved metabolic health, and overall well-being rather than solely on rapid weight loss or restrictive dieting.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Psoriasis (Mild to Moderate Plaque Psoriasis - Initial Management): Helping patients manage the symptoms of psoriasis (scaling, plaques, itchiness) and reduce skin inflammation through effective topical therapies and supportive care.
• Benign Skin Lesion Assessment & Management (Skin Tags, Seborrheic Keratoses, Cysts, Lipomas): Primary care management of common, non-cancerous skin lesions, including reassurance and simple removal procedures where appropriate and within scope.
• Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate) & Rosacea Management: Helping adolescents and adults manage these common and often distressing inflammatory skin conditions effectively to improve skin appearance, reduce symptoms (redness, papules, pustules, flushing), prevent scarring (acne), and enhance quality of life.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Symptom Management & Monitoring: Management includes lifestyle advice (fluid management, avoiding bladder irritants), behavioral therapies (timed voiding), and prescription of medications such as alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin, alfuzosin) to relax prostate/bladder neck muscles, or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride) to shrink prostate volume. Monitoring for symptom improvement and medication side effects.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Helping patients find relief from itchy, irritated, or dry eyes through appropriate primary care interventions and guidance.
• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Management includes advising on leg elevation, regular exercise (calf muscle pump activation), weight management, avoidance of prolonged standing/sitting, and recommending/prescribing appropriately fitted graduated compression stockings. Patient education on skin care to prevent venous ulcers.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Managing common types of nutritional anemia such as iron deficiency anemia (oral or intravenous iron supplementation, dietary advice to increase iron intake and absorption, investigation for source of chronic blood loss if suspected - e.g., GI bleed, heavy menses) and megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency (oral or parenteral supplementation, dietary counseling, investigation for underlying causes like pernicious anemia, malabsorption syndromes - celiac disease, Crohn's, post-gastric surgery, medication effects - metformin, PPIs).

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

• Cardiovascular Disease Management (Stable CAD, Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation): Helping patients manage their heart health long-term after cardiac events or diagnoses, focusing on secondary prevention and maintaining functional capacity.
• Eczema, Psoriasis (Mild) & Other Common Rashes: Helping patients control flare-ups of itchy, inflamed skin and maintain healthy skin barrier function.
• Referrals to Medical Specialists, Subspecialists & Specialized Programs: Ensuring seamless access to specialized medical care through efficient and well-documented referrals, acting as your central coordinator and advocate within the healthcare system.
• Skin Lesion Assessment, Biopsy & Minor Excisions (Benign Lesions): Evaluating common benign skin growths (skin tags, seborrheic keratoses, cherry angiomas, dermatofibromas). Performing skin biopsies (punch, shave, excisional) of suspicious lesions to rule out skin cancer, or offering in-office removal of benign lesions for cosmetic reasons or if causing irritation.
• Comprehensive Periodic Health Exams (Check-ups): Regularly scheduled check-ups to monitor overall health, update immunizations, perform age-appropriate screenings, and provide personalized lifestyle counseling.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Lejay. 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 BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Patricia Sue Lejay's practice, 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. Lejay frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Struggling with feeling more anxious, worried, or on edge than usual lately, affecting their daily life? Dr. Lejay helps patients target having a reliable, knowledgeable, consistently accessible, and compassionate go-to medical professional in Richmond for the vast majority of their entire family's diverse and evolving health needs, from newborn care and pediatrics through to adult medicine and geriatrics, making a return to activities such as efficiently managing and maintaining their home environment, including undertaking light repairs, seasonal maintenance, or significant organizational projects, with physical capability and sustained energy more achievable.
• Through Dr. Lejay's guidance, patients with feeling unusually tired and completely run down for weeks, not just a day or two of fatigue often find they can achieve obtaining clear, concise, and actionable guidance from Richmond on when it's appropriate to seek urgent versus routine medical attention for various common symptoms, promoting appropriate health service utilization and once again pursue consistently driving safely, alertly, and comfortably for all necessary daily errands, regular commuting to work or school, or for longer leisure trips and family visits, without physical strain or cognitive impairment.
• Dr. Lejay's care for needing a doctor's note for work or school due to a recent illness or injury is designed to result in managing bothersome and often disruptive menopausal or perimenopausal symptoms (like hot flashes, sleep issues, or mood changes) effectively with Richmond's expert guidance and tailored treatment options, leading to improved well-being, better sleep, and a smoother, more comfortable life transition, so patients can resume activities such as actively participating in local civic life, serving on community boards, contributing to neighborhood associations, or engaging in grassroots advocacy groups with consistent energy, passion, and intellectual commitment with confidence.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Lejay, 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. Lejay practices at a family medical clinic in Richmond, situated in the West Richmond (Terra Nova, Thompson) neighborhood of Richmond. The clinic is conveniently located near Minoru Park and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Canada Line, Bus). Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

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

A family doctor (BC) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. She is 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.

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

Finding a family doctor in BC who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list on their website. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also be helpful. It may take time to find a suitable doctor.

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

If you have several health issues, Dr. Lejay is well-equipped to be your central point of care. Her role includes understanding how your different conditions and their treatments might impact each other, helping you to navigate the healthcare system, and ensuring that all aspects of your health are considered in your overall treatment plan. Dr. Lejay will work with you and other specialists to manage your health comprehensively.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Lejay?

Always bring your health card to your appointment with Dr. Lejay. A complete list of all medications you're currently taking (prescription, non-prescription, natural health products) is crucial for Dr. Lejay to review. For new patients, any past medical records or a health summary you can provide are beneficial. If you're diabetic, bringing your blood sugar log and meter can be helpful. Preparing a list of your symptoms or questions in advance can also make your appointment more productive and ensure all your concerns are addressed.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in BC 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 local health authority website or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC patient-doctor matching service (if available), may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

Can Dr. Lejay help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your family doctor, Dr. Lejay plays a crucial role in mental healthcare. She is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related issues, sleep problems, or concerns about substance use. Dr. Lejay can provide an initial assessment, offer supportive counseling and lifestyle strategies, prescribe medication if appropriate and indicated, and make referrals to specialized mental health services such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or community mental health programs if more intensive or specialized care is needed. Dr. Lejay can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid provincial 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 our clinic if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

Does Dr. Lejay at your clinic offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr. Lejay offers virtual (video) and phone appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, prescription renewals (not controlled substances), or for certain mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions requiring a physical examination will necessitate an in-person visit. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Lejay if a virtual appointment might be suitable for your needs. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with our clinic regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

160-6111 River Rd
Richmond, BC, V7C 0A2

Phone: (604) 278-6838 | Website: http://coastmedical.ca/vancouver-seymour-street/

Dr. Patricia Sue Lejay is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 7944

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/305681/Lejay%2CPatricia

Family doctors like Dr. Lejay 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.