Dr. Sara Cristina Puente – Family Doctor | Strathroy, ON

Dr. Sara Cristina Puente is a dedicated Family Doctor, committed to providing comprehensive healthcare for individuals and families of all ages. Practicing at a family medical practice in Strathroy, ON, she is a trusted primary care provider in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that every patient receives safe, ethical, and evidence-based care. Dr. Puente's focus is on delivering a patient-centered approach that emphasizes continuity, accessibility, and compassion, fostering long-term relationships with her patients and their families.

Dr. Puente earned her Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. Following her graduation, she completed a rigorous residency program in Family Medicine, which led to her certification by the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP). She has been practicing as a Family Doctor since 2009, accumulating over 15 years of experience dedicated to comprehensive family medicine. She is recognized as a CFPC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her commitment to continuing education and clinical excellence.

Her professional philosophy centers on building long-term, trusting relationships with her patients and their families to provide personalized, continuous care. She advocates for a patient-centered approach, involving individuals actively in decisions about their health and treatment plans. Dr. Puente is dedicated to evidence-based medicine and lifelong learning, ensuring her practice remains aligned with the latest clinical guidelines. She emphasizes preventative health and wellness, aiming to help her patients achieve their best possible health outcomes. All communication and care are offered in English, with a focus on compassion, respect, and holistic well-being in the Strathroy community.

Dr. Sara Puente provides comprehensive care for a wide range of health concerns, including:

Acute and Common Illnesses

Dr. Puente manages family doctors provide timely assessment, advice, and treatment to help patients recover quickly from these common health concerns.

• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (e.g., Sprains, Strains, Minor Back Pain): Advice on RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), pain relief, and when to seek further imaging or physiotherapy.
• Ear Infections (Otitis Media) and Sore Throats (Pharyngitis/Tonsillitis): Assessment of pain, fever, and related symptoms, with antibiotic prescription when necessary.
• Common Skin Conditions (e.g., Eczema Flare-ups, Minor Burns, Impetigo, Fungal Infections): Prescription of topical creams, ointments, or oral medications.

Women's Health and Maternity Care

Dr. Puente manages includes routine gynecological care, family planning, prenatal and postnatal support, and management of common women's health issues.

• Menstrual Disorders and Menopause Management: Addressing bone health and cardiovascular risk in menopausal women.
• Routine Gynecological Care (Pap Tests, Breast Health): Addressing common gynecological concerns.
• Family Planning and Contraception: Counseling on various contraceptive methods (oral contraceptives, IUDs, injections, barrier methods, etc.) to help patients make informed choices.

Chronic Disease Management

Dr. Puente manages focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, optimizing medications, supporting self-management, and improving overall quality of life.

• Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Diagnosis (often with spirometry), personalized asthma/COPD action plans, education on proper inhaler technique, and management of controller and reliever medications.
• Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol and Triglycerides): Screening, diagnosis, and management of abnormal lipid profiles to prevent heart disease and stroke.
• Osteoarthritis and Common Rheumatic Conditions: Includes pain relief strategies, advice on exercise and weight management, joint protection techniques, and referrals to physiotherapy or rheumatology.

This list is not exhaustive. For a complete assessment of your health needs, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Sara Puente.

• Mental Health Support and Initial Management: Providing assessment, counseling, and initial treatment for common mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, and insomnia.
• Coordination of Specialist Care and Referrals: Serving as the central point for navigating the healthcare system, including making appropriate referrals to medical specialists and allied health professionals.
• Comprehensive Health Examinations (All Ages): Assessing overall health status, identifying potential risk factors, and creating personalized wellness strategies.
• Low-Risk Maternity and Newborn Care: Providing prenatal care for uncomplicated pregnancies, often in a shared-care model.
• Pediatric Care (Well-Child and Sick Visits): Comprehensive healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents, including routine well-child examinations and developmental monitoring.
• Chronic Disease Management and Prevention: Developing individualized care plans, monitoring disease progression, optimizing medications, and coordinating with specialists.

Note: This list provides an overview of common services. Your specific care plan will be determined after a consultation with Dr. Puente.

All family medicine services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) and relevant provincial clinical practice guidelines. Patients typically do not require a referral to see a family doctor if the practice is accepting new patients.

Dr. Puente primarily practices at a welcoming family medical clinic situated in the heart of Strathroy. The clinic offers a comfortable, accessible environment designed to meet the healthcare needs of individuals and families from the surrounding community. It is conveniently located near local community services, pharmacies, and public transit routes, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive primary care. The facility provides ample parking options close to the entrance, and the clinic is equipped to support a wide range of health services in a modern, patient-centered setting. Patients can expect personalized care in a friendly atmosphere with a focus on accessibility and continuity.

Are services provided by Dr. Puente covered by my provincial health insurance?

Most essential medical services from Dr. Puente, including consultations for health issues, routine examinations, and chronic disease management, are covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Some services, like certain medical forms for third parties or cosmetic procedures, may not be covered. Most medically necessary services from a Family Doctor, like office visits for check-ups or sickness, are covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Services not typically covered include some medical forms (e.g., for insurance, work, or travel), cosmetic procedures, and some non-preventative services. It's always best to inquire with Dr. Puente's clinic about any potential fees for non-covered services.

If I need specialized medical care, how does Dr. Puente help?

If your health condition requires the expertise of a specialist, Dr. Puente, as your Family Doctor, will assess your situation and provide a referral to an appropriate medical specialist (e.g., a cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, etc.). She plays a vital role in coordinating this care, sharing necessary medical information, and continuing to oversee your overall health in collaboration with the specialist.

Do I typically need a referral from another doctor to see Dr. Puente as my family doctor?

No, a referral is not usually required to register with Dr. Puente as your family doctor. If Dr. Puente's clinic is taking on new patients, you can typically self-refer by calling their office to find out the steps for becoming a patient. You can reach the clinic at (519) 245-3590.

What kind of preventative healthcare can I expect from Dr. Puente?

Preventative services from Dr. Puente are aimed at keeping you healthy and detecting potential health problems early. These involve regular check-ups, vaccinations as per Canadian guidelines, screening for common chronic diseases, and advice on lifestyle modifications to reduce your risk of future illness.

When is it appropriate to see a Family Doctor like Dr. Puente?

A visit to Dr. Puente is suitable for almost all non-emergency health issues. This includes regular physical exams, vaccinations, addressing new symptoms, managing long-term health problems, and seeking guidance on lifestyle changes. They are your first point of contact for navigating the healthcare system.

Suite 102, 278 Metcalfe St W
Strathroy, ON N7G 1N3

Office Phone: (519) 245-3590 | Office Fax: (519) 245-6032

Dr. Puente is a licensed Family Doctor regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in Ontario. Patients typically do not require a referral to see Dr. Puente if the clinic is accepting new patients. Services are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. Puente's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Puente-Sara-Cristina/0242376-86556