Dr. Julie Bernier

Dr. Julie Bernier provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Acne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate) & Rosacea Management: Diagnosis and management of common acne (comedonal, papulopustular) and rosacea (erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular types) with topical treatments (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, topical antibiotics, metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin), oral antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines for inflammatory acne/rosacea, if indicated), and comprehensive lifestyle/skincare advice (gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products, sun protection for rosacea, trigger avoidance for rosacea). Referral to dermatology for severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne/rosacea.
• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Primary care management for common skin infections caused by viruses, including patient education on the nature of these infections and strategies for managing recurrences.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Performing opportunistic or targeted skin examinations, especially for patients with risk factors (e.g., history of sun exposure, family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, fair skin), to screen for suspicious moles or lesions that could indicate skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma - BCC, squamous cell carcinoma - SCC, melanoma). Utilizing dermoscopy if trained to improve diagnostic accuracy. Performing skin biopsies (punch, shave, excisional) of concerning lesions or providing timely referrals to dermatology for further evaluation, biopsy, and management if skin cancer is suspected.

Preventative Health Topics

• Health Equity & Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Discussion & Resource Navigation: A holistic approach to primary care that considers the broader social context of health and aims to reduce barriers to care and well-being by addressing SDOH.
• Infectious Disease Prevention & Outbreak Management Support (Community Level): Promoting individual and community resilience against infectious diseases through education, vaccination, and adherence to public health measures.
• Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Objective medical assessments for driving privileges, completed accurately according to regulatory requirements (fees typically apply as this is often an uninsured service). This may involve coordination with specialists if complex medical conditions impact driving ability.
• Travel Medicine Advice & Routine/Travel Vaccinations: Offering essential travel health services and tailored advice to protect your health while abroad, based on current international health regulations, CDC/WHO recommendations, and your specific travel plans.

Common Chronic Conditions

• Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol, High Triglycerides): Screening, diagnosis, and management of abnormal lipid profiles (high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides) through lifestyle modifications (heart-healthy diet, physical activity, weight management) and, when indicated, prescription of lipid-lowering medications (e.g., statins, ezetimibe, fibrates, PCSK9 inhibitors) based on cardiovascular risk assessment.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, B12/Folate Deficiency - Chronic): Diagnosing and providing ongoing treatment for common forms of anemia to maintain energy levels and overall health.
• Asthma (All Ages) & Allergic Rhinitis: Developing and regularly reviewing personalized asthma action plans, educating on proper inhaler technique (metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, nebulizers), trigger identification and avoidance (allergens, irritants), medication management (relievers, controllers like inhaled corticosteroids, LABAs, LTRAs), and managing asthma exacerbations to improve breathing, prevent flare-ups, and maintain an active lifestyle. Also includes management of associated allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr Bernier. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Diabetes Mellitus Care (Type 1, Type 2, Gestational, Prediabetes): Ongoing support, education, and evidence-based treatment for individuals living with all forms of diabetes to help them manage their condition effectively and maintain a high quality of life.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Incl. Sexual Health, Mental Health, Lifestyle): Supporting the unique physical, emotional, and social health needs of adolescents during a critical period of development.
• Well-Child & Well-Adolescent Visits (Growth & Development): Age-appropriate developmental screenings, health supervision, and lifestyle counseling for children and teenagers, ensuring they meet key milestones.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Expert management of a wide spectrum of acute illnesses affecting infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and teenagers, including appropriate antibiotic stewardship.
• Cardiovascular Disease Management (Stable CAD, Heart Failure, Atrial Fibrillation): Helping patients manage their heart health long-term after cardiac events or diagnoses, focusing on secondary prevention and maintaining functional capacity.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Bernier. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Médecin de familles in QC and the ethical and professional standards set by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

At Centre hosp. du Centre-de-la-Mauricie, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr Bernier frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Many seek Dr Bernier's help for a new skin rash that's itchy, spreading quickly, or looks unusual and concerning. The collaborative goal is learning effective, personalized, and evidence-based strategies for managing chronic daily stress, significantly improving their sleep quality and duration, or coping more adaptively and resiliently with life's inevitable challenges and adversities, with tools provided by Dr Bernier, allowing a return to valued activities like fully sharing and enjoying relaxed, convivial meals and engaging conversations with their loved ones without being constantly preoccupied by nagging physical pain, digestive discomfort, or restrictive dietary anxieties.
• Dr Bernier assists individuals in navigating experiencing panic attacks and wanting to find ways to manage them. A successful outcome, like feeling substantially more in control of their personal health journey, demonstrably better equipped to make informed health decisions for themselves and their family, and genuinely optimistic about their future health prospects due to the guidance and partnership with Dr Bernier, means they can get back to feeling consistently rested, fully alert, and cognitively sharp enough to drive safely and defensively for both short daily commutes and much longer, more demanding road trips or family vacations.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr Bernier, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr Bernier's practice at Centre hosp. du Centre-de-la-Mauricie is situated in a family medical practice in central Shawinigan-Sud neighborhood of Shawinigan-Sud. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

What exactly is a family doctor (Médecin de famille) and what is their role?

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

Can Dr Bernier help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Absolutely. Dr Bernier is well-equipped to address a wide range of mental health issues as part of comprehensive family practice. She can help diagnose conditions like anxiety or depression, provide counseling and support, manage psychotropic medications when appropriate, and coordinate care with mental health specialists if required. If you're struggling with your mental well-being, Dr Bernier is a good person to start the conversation with and seek help from in a confidential and supportive environment.

How can I find a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC who is accepting new patients?

Finding a family doctor in Quebec who is accepting new patients can be challenging, but there are resources to help. The Collège des médecins du Québec website often has a physician search tool. You can also try the Guichet d'accès à un médecin de famille (GAMF). Asking friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations is also helpful. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also yield results. It's important to be patient and persistent, as it may take time to find a suitable doctor.

How long do appointments with Dr Bernier typically last?

Typically, a regular appointment with Dr Bernier to discuss a specific health concern or for a follow-up lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. However, if you are a new patient, scheduled for a complete physical exam, or need to discuss multiple or complex health matters, the appointment will likely be scheduled for a longer duration, such as 30 minutes. Please inform the reception staff at Centre hosp. du Centre-de-la-Mauricie about the nature of your visit when booking, so sufficient time with Dr Bernier can be arranged.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Quebec if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like the Collège des médecins du Québec website or the Guichet d'accès à un médecin de famille (GAMF) can assist. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see specialists.

What happens if Dr Bernier determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. Bernier determines you need to see a specialist, she will discuss this with you and provide a referral. Our office will send the necessary information to the specialist's office, who will then contact you to schedule an appointment. Specialist wait times can vary, so Dr. Bernier will continue to manage your care in the meantime.

Is seeing a family doctor (Médecin de famille) covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by RAMQ for eligible Quebec residents with a valid health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, travel medicine consultations, sick notes, or insurance forms, may not be covered and might have additional fees. Please confirm with Centre hosp. du Centre-de-la-Mauricie if you have questions about specific services or potential costs.

Centre hosp. du Centre-de-la-Mauricie
50 119e Rue
Shawinigan-Sud, QC, G9P 5K1

Phone: (819) 536-7500

Dr. Julie Bernier is regulated by the Code des professions & Loi médicale (Québec) in QC and is a registered member in good standing with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

Registration Number: 98417

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=98417

Family doctors like Dr Bernier are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.