Dr. Pierre-Olivier Dufresne

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

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): Objective medical assessments for driving privileges, completed accurately according to regulatory requirements (fees typically apply as this is often an uninsured service). This may involve coordination with specialists if complex medical conditions impact driving ability.
• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Personalized advice and comprehensive care plans for healthy weight loss, prevention of unhealthy weight gain, or management of obesity and its related health conditions (e.g., type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, certain cancers).

Pediatric Common Issues

• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): Providing initial guidance and evidence-based parenting strategies, and coordinating timely referrals to appropriate pediatric specialists (e.g., developmental pediatricians, child psychologists/psychiatrists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, audiologists) if further evaluation, diagnosis, or specialized intervention is indicated.
• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Primary care coordination for childhood asthma, eczema, and allergies, ensuring optimal health, growth, and development, with close collaboration with pediatric specialists when necessary for severe or complex cases.
• 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.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Creating a safe, non-judgmental, and youth-friendly healthcare environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly, receive accurate information, build a trusting relationship with their doctor, and are empowered to take charge of their health.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Primary care approach to accurately diagnosing and effectively treating common forms of anemia to improve energy levels, cognitive function, exercise tolerance, and overall health. Referral to hematology for complex or unexplained anemia.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Diagnosing and managing common eye conditions like allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, red, watery eyes often seasonal or related to specific allergens) with advice on allergen avoidance, cool compresses, artificial tears, and topical/oral antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers. Assessing and providing initial management for dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca - gritty, burning, foreign body sensation, intermittent blurry vision) with education on environmental modifications, regular use of artificial tears/lubricating ointments, and advice on blinking exercises/lid hygiene. Referral to ophthalmology if symptoms are severe, persistent, vision is affected, or diagnosis is uncertain.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Providing initial management strategies for RLS, including lifestyle modifications (e.g., regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, avoiding caffeine/alcohol close to bedtime), checking and correcting iron deficiency (ferritin levels), and considering pharmacological options (e.g., dopamine agonists like pramipexole/ropinirole, gabapentin enacarbil) for moderate to severe, frequent symptoms that significantly impact sleep or quality of life. Referral to neurology or sleep specialist for complex or refractory cases.
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection - Testing & Eradication Therapy: Testing for Helicobacter pylori infection in appropriate clinical contexts (e.g., patients with peptic ulcer disease, certain types of gastritis, dyspepsia in high-prevalence areas, or family history of gastric cancer) using non-invasive methods like urea breath test, stool antigen test, or serology (less reliable for active infection).

Common Acute Conditions

• Gastrointestinal Infections (Gastroenteritis, Food Poisoning): Advice and supportive care for managing symptoms of viral or bacterial gastroenteritis ('stomach flu') or mild food poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, with a primary focus on preventing and managing dehydration, especially in vulnerable populations (children, elderly).
• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Management of acute migraine episodes or severe tension headaches, including advice on abortive medications, lifestyle adjustments during an attack, and strategies for future prevention.
• Allergic Reactions (Mild to Moderate - e.g., Hay Fever, Hives, Minor Food Allergy Symptoms): Diagnosing and managing common allergic reactions such as seasonal/perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever), mild to moderate hives (urticaria), minor localized reactions to insect stings, and initial assessment of suspected mild food allergy symptoms. Does not include anaphylaxis management which is an emergency.

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

• Chronic Respiratory Disease Care (Asthma, COPD, Chronic Bronchitis): Support and treatment for chronic lung diseases, including referrals for pulmonary rehabilitation and specialist care when indicated.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, Stress): Providing personalized, evidence-based advice and developing actionable plans for healthy eating, regular physical activity, optimal sleep hygiene, and effective stress management techniques to promote overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance well-being.
• Assessment & Management of Anxiety, Depression & Mood Disorders: Ongoing management and support for anxiety and mood disorders, helping patients develop coping strategies, achieve symptom remission or reduction, and improve overall well-being.
• Thyroid Disorder Management (Hypo/Hyperthyroidism, Nodules, Hashimoto's): Diagnosis, treatment (e.g., thyroid hormone replacement for hypothyroidism, antithyroid drugs or referral for hyperthyroidism), and long-term monitoring of common thyroid conditions including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, to ensure hormonal balance, manage symptoms effectively, and monitor for complications like thyroid nodules or goiter.
• Eating Disorder Screening & Referral Coordination: Screening for signs and symptoms of eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder) during routine visits or when concerns arise. Providing initial support and psychoeducation, and facilitating timely referrals to specialized eating disorder programs, dietitians, and mental health professionals.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Dufresne. 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 Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac, 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 Dufresne frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr Dufresne understands the impact of chest pain or pressure, especially with exertion or other concerning symptoms – they know this could be urgent. That's why treatment is geared towards having their complex chronic condition, such as advanced type 2 diabetes, congestive heart failure, difficult-to-control asthma, or multi-joint osteoarthritis, effectively managed and well-stabilized through a collaborative, evidence-based plan developed with {preferred_name}, helping patients get back to actively participating in ongoing professional development activities, industry conferences, or learning new, marketable skills for their current career path or potential future career transitions with greater ease.
• Struggling with wanting to talk about their alcohol consumption, cannabis use, or concerns about other substance use in a confidential setting? Dr Dufresne helps patients target seeing profoundly positive and lasting changes in their overall approach to health, preventative self-care, and health-seeking behaviors as a direct and inspiring result of {preferred_name}'s ongoing education, consistent encouragement, and positive role modeling, making a return to activities such as easily and safely being able to kneel down to play on the floor with pets or young children, bend over to tie shoelaces or pick things up, or squat as needed for various daily tasks, gardening, or exercise routines without pain or instability more achievable.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr Dufresne, 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 Dufresne practices at Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac, situated in a family medical practice in the central Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac neighborhood of Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac. 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, but there are resources to help. The Collège des médecins du Québec often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list on their website. You can also try using 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 clinics that focus on new patients directly is another avenue to explore. It may take time and persistence.

Does Dr Dufresne at Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr Dufresne at Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac offers virtual (video) and/or 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 for ongoing medications (not controlled substances), or for certain mental health follow-ups. However, many conditions, new problems, or situations requiring a physical examination will still necessitate an in-person visit for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr Dufresne if a virtual appointment might be suitable for your specific needs. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

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 Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a family doctor like Dr Dufresne?

Preventative care with Dr Dufresne focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious or cause symptoms. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (periodic health exams), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests, mammograms, colon cancer screening, PSA discussions), immunizations (flu shots, travel vaccines, routine boosters), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The primary goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early when they are most treatable, and promote your long-term health and well-being.

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 Collège des médecins du Québec website, may be helpful in your search. A referral is usually required from your family doctor to see most medical specialists.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac 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 Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac 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 Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac or Dr Dufresne during regular hours to see if such arrangements are in place for their practice. Our clinic voicemail [(418) 899-6751] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

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

As a family doctor, Dr Dufresne is specifically trained to manage patients with multiple health problems (multimorbidity) and complex care needs. He will take a holistic approach, considering how your various conditions interact and how treatments for one might affect another. Dr Dufresne will help prioritize your health concerns, coordinate care with any specialists involved, manage your medications to avoid harmful interactions (polypharmacy review), and develop a comprehensive care plan that aligns with your overall health goals and quality of life. Open communication about all your conditions and concerns is key.

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

A family doctor (Médecin de famille) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. He 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.

Hôpital de Notre-Dame-du-Lac, Gmf notre dame du lac
10224-58 rue de l'Église
Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac, QC, G0L 1X0

Phone: (418) 899-6751

Dr. Pierre-Olivier Dufresne 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: 14573

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=14573

Family doctors like Dr Dufresne 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.