Dr. Carole Pichette – Nephrologist | Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC

Dr. Carole Pichette is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at Clinique médicale du dr Carole Pichette in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC, she is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive and empathetic treatment. Dr. Pichette's role as a Nephrologist involves the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming environment designed for the comfort and accessibility of all patients, providing a wide range of kidney care services from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.

With a strong foundation in medical education, Dr. Pichette graduated with her Medical Degree in 1976. She completed her residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. Over her more than 42 years of practice as a Nephrologist since 1982, she has gained extensive experience in managing complex kidney conditions. She holds the necessary certifications to practice in Quebec, having completed rigorous postgraduate training and maintaining active licensure through the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). Her certifications include her license number 76459, reflecting her adherence to professional standards and ongoing medical education.

Dr. Pichette’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and enhancing the quality of life for her patients. She is committed to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them to participate actively in their care. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and advanced therapies, she aims for optimal patient outcomes through early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. She works collaboratively with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic care. Dr. Pichette provides nephrology consultations and treatments in French, dedicated to the health and well-being of her community in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.

Dr. Carole Pichette provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Pichette addresses management focuses on slowing progression, treating underlying causes like diabetes and hypertension, and managing complications.

• Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: Treated with iron supplements and/or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).
• Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Severe reduction in kidney function, often accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, swelling, and changes in urination.
• Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Pichette addresses nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex cases.

• Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Management involves identifying the cause (e.g., medications, kidney disease, hormonal issues) and correcting the imbalance.
• Secondary Hypertension: Treating the underlying cause can often improve or resolve the hypertension.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Treatment targets the underlying cause and correction of the pH imbalance.

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Pichette addresses disorders that affect the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within the kidneys, often leading to proteinuria, hematuria, and impaired kidney function.

• Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): Can be primary or secondary to other conditions. Treatment options vary.
• Nephrotic Syndrome: Treatment aims to reduce proteinuria and manage symptoms.
• Nephritic Syndrome: Indicates inflammation of the glomeruli.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Carole Pichette is necessary.

• Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Focus on blood sugar control, blood pressure management, and use of kidney-protective medications.
• Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Includes patient training, ongoing monitoring, and management of peritoneal dialysis-related issues.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: Prompt evaluation and treatment for sudden loss of kidney function.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Diagnosis and treatment of high blood pressure, particularly resistant or secondary hypertension linked to kidney problems.
• Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Evaluation and management of various glomerular diseases like IgA nephropathy, FSGS, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.
• Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease using iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Pichette.

All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Pichette's primary nephrology clinic is located at the Clinique médicale du dr Carole Pichette in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu's Saint-Jean Sector North neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Chambly Canal National Historic Site, easily accessible via Transport Urbain / Taxibus du Haut-Richelieu. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional environment dedicated to comprehensive kidney care. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available for patients, ensuring easy access for those seeking specialized nephrology services. The clinic provides a welcoming space for patients to receive thorough evaluations, ongoing management, and personalized treatment plans for their kidney health.

What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Pichette?

Dr. Pichette treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

How does Dr. Pichette help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Managing high blood pressure is a key part of kidney care. Dr. Pichette can assess complex cases of hypertension, identify if it's related to kidney problems (renal hypertension), and tailor treatment plans that may include specialized medications or adjustments to existing ones to achieve target blood pressure levels and slow down any kidney damage.

What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Pichette?

Dr. Pichette is involved in the medical aspects of kidney transplantation. Her role includes assessing if a transplant is a good option for you, helping manage your kidney disease before transplant, and providing ongoing medical care after the surgery. This post-transplant care is vital for the long-term success of the new kidney and involves medication management and regular check-ups.

Are services from Dr. Pichette covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Pichette, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). It's advisable to confirm coverage specifics with her office or RAMQ directly, as some tests or therapies may vary in coverage.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Pichette?

You should consider seeing Dr. Pichette if your primary care physician detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, if you have a family history of kidney disease, or if you require specialized management for conditions like advanced CKD, glomerulonephritis, or are being evaluated for dialysis or transplant. Sudden declines in kidney function also warrant urgent review.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Pichette and a Urologist?

A Nephrologist specializes in diagnosing and managing diseases affecting kidney function and systemic kidney issues, such as CKD, dialysis, and transplantation. A Urologist is a surgical specialist focusing on structural and anatomical problems of the urinary tract, including kidney stones, bladder issues, and prostate problems. Both are essential for comprehensive kidney and urinary health but have different scopes of practice.

What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Pichette might discuss?

Dr. Pichette can explain the primary dialysis options, including hemodialysis—where blood is filtered outside the body—and peritoneal dialysis—where a special solution is used inside the abdomen to clean the blood internally. She assesses which modality is most suitable based on individual patient needs and lifestyle.

Clinique médicale du dr Carole Pichette
304-895 boul du Séminaire N
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC J3A 1J2

Office Phone: (450) 359-1357 | Office Fax: (450) 359-4569

Dr. Pichette is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Pichette, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Verify Dr. Pichette's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=76459