About
Dr. Frédéric Potvin-Gingras is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at Hôpital de la Cité-de-la-Santé in Laval, QC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His practice adheres to the high standards established by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based neurological care.
Dr. Potvin-Gingras holds a Medical Degree from a recognized university and has accumulated over six years of experience practicing as a Neurologist since 2018. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in neurology and maintains the necessary certifications to practice in Quebec, ensuring his expertise aligns with provincial healthcare standards and best practices.
His clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, emphasizing a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Potvin-Gingras is committed to ongoing patient education, clear communication, and supportive management of neurological conditions. Fluent in French, he dedicates himself to serving the adult population of Laval with compassion and professionalism, offering a supportive environment for patients and their families navigating complex neurological issues.
Dr. Frédéric Potvin-Gingras addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
- Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases
- Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.
- Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.
- Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare inflammatory demyelinating condition of the central nervous system, typically following an infection or vaccination.
Headache Disorders
- Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.
- Chronic Daily Headache: Headaches occurring 15 or more days per month for at least three months.
- Cluster Headache: Intensely painful headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or cluster periods, one of the most severe types of pain known.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Frédéric Potvin-Gingras.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication 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.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Potvin-Gingras 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.
Hôpital de la Cité-de-la-Santé is situated in Laval's Chomedey North neighborhood, serving as a key medical facility within the region. The hospital features a dedicated neurology unit where Dr. Potvin-Gingras provides specialized neurological care. The hospital is conveniently located near Place Bell, a major sports and entertainment complex, making it accessible for visitors. Public transit options are available through the Société de transport de Laval (STL), with bus routes connecting the hospital to surrounding areas. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for visitors, providing convenient options for those arriving by car.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Potvin-Gingras, a Neurologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Potvin-Gingras, 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. Potvin-Gingras's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Potvin-Gingras, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Potvin-Gingras 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.
- How does Dr. Potvin-Gingras manage Parkinson's disease?
- Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Potvin-Gingras will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.
- What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Potvin-Gingras?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Potvin-Gingras 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. Potvin-Gingras 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.
- 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. Potvin-Gingras can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
- 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. Potvin-Gingras can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.
Hôpital de la Cité-de-la-Santé
1755 boul René-Laennec
Laval, QC H7M 3L9
Phone: (450) 668-1010 | Fax: (450) 975-5072
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Potvin-Gingras is a licensed Neurologist 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. Potvin-Gingras 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=18331