Dr. Donald Rivest – Neurologist | Lévis, QC

Dr. Donald Rivest, a Epileptologist, provides expert care for adult patients with conditions related to Epilepsy. Practicing at Clinique Neuro-Lévis in Lévis, QC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice centers on the comprehensive management of epilepsy and seizure disorders, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and tailoring treatment plans. Patients can expect a supportive environment where their neurological health is prioritized, with a focus on individualized care that addresses both medical and lifestyle considerations.

He holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 28 years of experience as a Epileptologist since 1996. Dr. Rivest has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice Epilepsy in QC, ensuring adherence to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). His expertise is supported by ongoing professional development and a commitment to evidence-based neurological care.

Dr. Rivest’s clinical philosophy emphasizes patient-centered care, a holistic approach to neurological health, and ongoing patient education and support. He is dedicated to helping patients and their families navigate complex neurological conditions with compassion and clarity. Fluent in French, he communicates effectively with his diverse patient population, ensuring understanding and comfort throughout the care process.

Dr. Donald Rivest addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

• Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
• Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
• Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.

Neuromuscular Diseases

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) / Motor Neuron Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system.
• Muscular Dystrophies (e.g., Duchenne, Becker, Myotonic Dystrophy): A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Donald Rivest.

• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Management of Status Epilepticus (in hospital setting): Emergency treatment for prolonged or recurrent seizures.
• Long-Term Epilepsy Monitoring (LTM) / Video-EEG Monitoring - Interpretation & Management Planning: Extended EEG recording, often with video, to capture seizure events and aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Evaluation for Epilepsy Surgery, Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), or Responsive Neurostimulation (RNS): Assessing suitability for advanced epilepsy treatments when medications are not fully effective.
• Diagnosis & Comprehensive Management of Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders: Including seizure type classification, anti-epileptic drug (AED) selection and management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Rivest for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Clinique Neuro-Lévis is situated in Lévis's Saint-Romuald neighborhood, specifically in the Saint-Jean-Chrysostome West area. The clinic is conveniently located near Forts-de-Lévis National Historic Site, offering a pleasant environment for patients. Public transit options are accessible through the Société de transport de Lévis (STLévis), making it easy for patients to reach the clinic. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility to accommodate visitors arriving by car.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Rivest, a Epileptologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Epileptologist like Dr. Rivest, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Rivest's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Rivest, a Epileptologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Epileptologist like Dr. Rivest for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Rivest?

Your first appointment with Dr. Rivest will likely be quite thorough. He will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Rivest may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.

When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?

You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Rivest if needed.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. Rivest can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.

What does a Epileptologist like Dr. Rivest specialize in?

A Epileptologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Epileptologist, specializing in Epilepsy. Dr. Rivest is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.

What are the treatment options for epilepsy?

The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Dr. Rivest can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.

Clinique Neuro-Lévis
300-1190A rue de Courchevel
Lévis, QC G6W 1S2

Phone: (418) 830-1737 | Fax: (418) 830-1736

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Rivest is a licensed Epileptologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Rivest for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=96444