Dr. Justine Bélanger – Family Doctor | Saint-Léonard, QC

Dr. Justine Bélanger is a Médecin de famille. Practicing at GMF-R Levasseur in Saint-Léonard, QC, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. Her focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Justine Bélanger completed her Family Medicine (2018). She brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. She has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. She is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of her practice philosophy include a dedication to preventative medicine and health promotion, aiming to identify risks early and support patients in maintaining long-term wellness; fostering continuity of care and building long-term relationships with patients and their families, providing a trusted medical home; a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care. She offers consultations in French.

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

Common Chronic Conditions

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis): Ongoing primary care for COPD, empowering patients with self-management techniques and coordinating care with respiratory specialists when necessary.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus & Prediabetes: Managing all aspects of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes with personalized treatment plans. This includes regular blood sugar monitoring (self-monitoring, A1c, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) discussion), prescription and adjustment of medications (oral hypoglycemics, GLP-1 agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, insulin), comprehensive diet and exercise counseling, and proactive screening and management of diabetes-related complications (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, foot problems, cardiovascular disease).
• 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.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - Early to Moderate Stages: Early detection, monitoring of kidney function (e.g., eGFR, urine ACR), management of risk factors that can worsen CKD (especially diabetes and hypertension), medication review to avoid nephrotoxic drugs, lifestyle counseling (dietary advice on protein, sodium, potassium), and timely referrals to nephrology for patients with early to moderate stage chronic kidney disease to slow progression and prevent complications.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Assessing patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of Restless Legs Syndrome (an urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, typically worse at rest/in the evening, and relieved by movement). This includes ruling out secondary causes (e.g., iron deficiency, kidney failure, pregnancy, certain medications).
• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Primary care support for managing discomfort and preventing complications associated with venous disease. Referral to vascular specialists or phlebologists for more advanced treatments (e.g., sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, surgery) if symptoms are severe, progressive, or complicated by ulceration or recurrent phlebitis.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis & Dry Eye Syndrome - Primary Care Management: Helping patients find relief from itchy, irritated, or dry eyes through appropriate primary care interventions and guidance.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Comprehensive medical care for newborns immediately after birth and through the first year of life. Includes routine physical exams, growth monitoring, screening for jaundice and congenital conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia, heart murmurs), umbilical cord care, and vitamin K/eye prophylaxis discussions (hospital-based). Strong focus on infant feeding support, including guidance and troubleshooting for breastfeeding (latch, positioning, supply concerns, mastitis management) and appropriate formula feeding practices, ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration.
• Common Childhood Infections (Viral & Bacterial - Ear, Throat, Chest, Skin, GI): Diagnosing and treating frequent acute illnesses in children, such as otitis media (ear infections), streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat - with rapid testing if available), common colds and influenza, croup, bronchiolitis, roseola, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, viral and bacterial gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea), uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and common skin infections (impetigo, cellulitis - mild).
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): Performing routine developmental surveillance and targeted screening (e.g., using Ages & Stages Questionnaires - ASQ) when parents or educators raise concerns regarding potential developmental delays (in speech/language, gross/fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, social-emotional development). Offering initial assessment and guidance for common behavioral issues (e.g., significant tantrums, sleep problems, childhood anxiety, aggression), symptoms suggestive of ADHD, or learning difficulties.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Contact Dermatitis & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Comprehensive primary care for common inflammatory skin conditions, aiming to alleviate symptoms, prevent secondary infections, and improve patient comfort and overall skin health.
• Viral Skin Infections (Common Warts, Molluscum Contagiosum, Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster/Shingles): Diagnosing and managing common viral skin infections. This includes common/plantar warts and molluscum contagiosum (observation, cryotherapy, topical agents like salicylic acid or cantharidin). For Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV - cold sores/fever blisters, genital herpes): antiviral therapy (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) for acute outbreaks or suppressive therapy for frequent recurrences, plus counseling on transmission. For Herpes Zoster (Shingles): prompt antiviral therapy to reduce severity/duration and risk of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), along with pain management. Shingles vaccination advice for eligible adults.
• Bacterial Skin Infections (Impetigo, Folliculitis, Cellulitis - uncomplicated): Effective antimicrobial therapy for common bacterial skin infections to resolve infection, prevent spread, and alleviate associated symptoms.
• Primary Care Skin Cancer Screening & Early Detection (Suspicious Mole/Lesion Assessment): Educating patients on sun safety measures (sunscreen, protective clothing, avoiding peak sun hours), the importance of regular skin self-examination using the ABCDEs of melanoma, and encouraging prompt reporting of any changing or new skin lesions.

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

• Grief, Loss & Bereavement Counseling (Initial Supportive Care): Providing a safe and understanding space to navigate the complex emotional, cognitive, and physical reactions to loss, and connecting with specialized bereavement services or support groups if needed.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Providing prompt, effective, and child-friendly care for common infections and acute conditions to ensure quick recovery and prevent complications.
• Evaluation of Acute Headaches & Dizziness / Vertigo: Initial medical evaluation to determine the cause of acute head pain or balance disturbance.
• Skin Lesion Assessment, Biopsy & Minor Excisions (Benign Lesions): Evaluating common benign skin growths (skin tags, seborrheic keratoses, cherry angiomas, dermatofibromas). Performing skin biopsies (punch, shave, excisional) of suspicious lesions to rule out skin cancer, or offering in-office removal of benign lesions for cosmetic reasons or if causing irritation.
• Urgent Care for Non-Life-Threatening Conditions: Providing assessment and management for urgent medical issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention, such as minor allergic reactions, asthma flare-ups, or infections needing timely treatment.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Bélanger. 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 GMF-R Levasseur, 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 Bélanger frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• If a minor injury like a sprained ankle from a misstep playing sports, or a small cut from cooking that might need stitches has put adeptly managing daily life stressors, unexpected personal challenges, and demanding professional pressures in a healthy, resilient, constructive, and adaptive way, maintaining emotional equilibrium on hold, Dr Bélanger works with patients toward having their advance care plans and end-of-life wishes thoughtfully discussed, respectfully explored, and accurately documented with Dr Bélanger well in advance, ensuring their future autonomy and dignity are preserved, helping them regain their previous level of function.
• For those challenged by wanting to get a baseline ECG because of family heart history before starting a new exercise program, Dr Bélanger offers strategies to reach successfully managing their multiple (often complex) medications with significantly fewer side effects, demonstrably better adherence to the prescribed regimen, and a much clearer understanding of each medication's specific purpose, benefits, and potential interactions, thanks to Dr Bélanger's careful oversight, which can mean rediscovering the joy of significantly reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of sick days from common illnesses for themselves and their children, leading to better attendance at work/school, improved overall productivity, and less household disruption.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr Bélanger, 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 Bélanger practices at GMF-R Levasseur, a family medical practice in the central Saint-Léonard neighborhood of Saint-Léonard. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

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. The Collège des médecins du Québec often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list on their website. You can also use 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 clinics that specifically mention accepting new patients is another option. It may take time and persistence.

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

A family doctor (Médecin de famille) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

What is 'continuity of care' and why is it important with a family doctor like Dr Bélanger?

Continuity of care means having an ongoing relationship with your family doctor, Dr Bélanger, and her team over time. It's important because it allows Dr Bélanger to get to know you, your health history, your values, and your family context comprehensively. This deep understanding helps Dr Bélanger make more informed diagnoses, tailor treatments to your specific needs, coordinate your care more effectively with specialists, and build a trusting therapeutic relationship. Studies show that good continuity of care with a family doctor is linked to better health outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and more appropriate use of healthcare resources.

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 the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with GMF-R Levasseur if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr Bélanger?

Bring your valid Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) card. It's also helpful to bring a list of your current medications (including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements) with dosages. Any relevant medical records, recent test results, or letters from other doctors are also useful, especially for a first visit or a specific complex problem. A written list of your questions or concerns can also be helpful.

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

Generally, you don't need a referral to see a family doctor in Quebec if they are accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources or the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Quebec may have patient-doctor matching services. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

What if Dr Bélanger works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr Bélanger?

Dr. Bélanger practices as part of GMF-R Levasseur, a team-based practice. You have access to other healthcare professionals. While the goal is continuity with Dr. Bélanger, for some routine follow-ups or specific services, you might be seen by another team member. This collaborative approach enhances access to care. GMF-R Levasseur will strive to have you see Dr. Bélanger for complex or ongoing issues.

GMF-R Levasseur
601-8000 Boul Langelier
Saint-Léonard, QC, H1P 3K2

Phone: (514) 383-0559

Dr. Justine Bélanger 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: 18520

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=18520

Family doctors like Dr Bélanger 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.