About
Dr. André Lapointe is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at the Clinique d'Ophtalmologie du Saguenay in Chicoutimi, QC, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that every patient receives comprehensive and safe treatment. As a skilled Ophthalmologist, he offers a full spectrum of services from routine eye examinations and vision correction to the management of complex eye diseases and surgical interventions. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.
Dr. Lapointe holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has been practicing as an Ophthalmologist since 1994, accumulating over 30 years of specialized experience. He has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice in Quebec, including certification from the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) with license number 94278. His dedication to continuing education and adherence to professional standards ensures that his patients benefit from the latest advancements in eye care and surgical techniques.
With a professional philosophy centered on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care, Dr. Lapointe emphasizes patient education and involvement in treatment decisions. He utilizes advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for precise and effective treatments, with a focus on early detection and management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss. Committed to the well-being of his patients, he provides consultations and treatments in French, fostering clear communication and trust. His approach is collaborative, often working with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care, with a deep commitment to maintaining and enhancing eye health in Chicoutimi.
Dr. André Lapointe provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:
Refractive Errors and Vision Correction
Dr. Lapointe addresses includes prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses, as well as assessment for refractive surgery options.
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness): A condition where near objects may appear blurry (and sometimes distant objects too) because the eye focuses images behind the retina.
- Myopia (Nearsightedness): A condition where distant objects appear blurry because the eye focuses images in front of the retina instead of on the retina.
- Presbyopia: Corrected with reading glasses, bifocals, progressive lenses, multifocal contact lenses, or specific surgical options.
Cataracts and Lens Disorders
Dr. Lapointe addresses primary treatment involves surgical removal of the cataract and implantation of an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
- Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Clouding of the lens present at birth or developing in early childhood.
- Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: Malposition of an implanted artificial lens or the eye's natural lens, often due to trauma or zonular weakness.
- Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Clouding of the posterior lens capsule that can occur months or years after cataract surgery.
Glaucoma Management
Dr. Lapointe addresses medical, laser, and surgical treatments aimed at lowering eye pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Management focuses on lowering eye pressure further and addressing other potential risk factors.
- Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Treatment involves managing the underlying cause and lowering eye pressure.
- Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Requires prompt surgical intervention to control eye pressure and prevent blindness.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. André Lapointe is necessary.
- Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Risk assessment for individuals with family history or other risk factors.
- Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Guidance on lens options and proper eye care for lens wearers.
- Emergency Eye Care Services: Urgent evaluation and treatment for acute eye injuries, sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or infections.
- Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Prescription of appropriate medications and therapies.
- YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): Restores clear vision by creating an opening in the clouded lens capsule.
- Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Tailoring medication regimens to individual patient needs and tolerance.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Lapointe.
All ophthalmology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.
Dr. Lapointe practices at the Clinique d'Ophtalmologie du Saguenay, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Chicoutimi. The clinic is conveniently situated close to various medical facilities and optical services, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive eye care. Easily reachable via local public transit routes, the clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for individuals with mobility challenges. The facility offers a professional and welcoming environment, dedicated to providing high-quality eye care for the community of Chicoutimi and surrounding areas.
- How does Dr. Lapointe treat glaucoma?
- For glaucoma, Dr. Lapointe will develop a personalized treatment plan which can involve daily eye drop medications to reduce eye pressure, in-office laser treatments to improve fluid drainage, or surgical interventions if medications and lasers are insufficient to control the pressure and protect your vision.
- Are services from Dr. Lapointe covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Lapointe for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). This includes treatments for diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Routine eye check-ups for vision testing (refraction) may not be covered for all age groups unless there's an underlying medical reason. Elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by provincial health insurance. Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Routine eye exams for glasses/contacts for adults (usually ages 19-64) may not be covered unless a specific medical condition affecting the eyes is present. Elective procedures such as cosmetic eyelid surgery or refractive laser surgery (LASIK/PRK) are generally not covered. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. Lapointe's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
- What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Lapointe?
- Dr. Lapointe treats a wide array of eye conditions. Common ones include refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and eyelid disorders. Depending on any subspecialty training, he may also manage more complex retinal, corneal, or neuro-ophthalmic conditions. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.
- What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lapointe specialize in?
- Dr. Lapointe is an Ophthalmologist, a physician with extensive training in all aspects of eye health. He provides complete eye exams, diagnoses conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal diseases, and can perform complex eye surgeries. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.
- What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lapointe and an Optometrist?
- An Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lapointe is a medical doctor (MD/DO) who has completed medical school followed by residency training in ophthalmology. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery, diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe medications, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Optometrists (OD) are healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive eye care, including vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses, and diagnosing and managing certain eye abnormalities and diseases (scope varies by province/territory). They typically do not perform invasive surgery.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lapointe?
- For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lapointe that are covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)), a referral from your family physician or an optometrist is typically required. This ensures that your visit is appropriate and that Dr. Lapointe receives relevant medical history. For some urgent eye conditions or specific services, direct access might be possible, but it's always best to check with Dr. Lapointe's office regarding their referral policy. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (418) 545-0774.
- When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Lapointe?
- A visit to Dr. Lapointe is recommended for routine eye health check-ups, particularly if you have risk factors for eye diseases. Immediate attention is needed for symptoms such as sudden loss or blurring of vision, flashes of light, an increase in floaters, eye pain, or discharge. Your primary care physician or optometrist may also refer you for specialized medical or surgical eye care.
Clinique d'Ophtalmologie du Saguenay
150 boul Barrette
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 7W8
Office Phone: (418) 545-2571 | Office Fax: (418) 545-0774
Dr. Lapointe is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Lapointe, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
Verify Dr. Lapointe's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=94278