Dr. Laurence Poliquin-Lasnier – Neurologist | Gatineau, QC

Dr. Laurence Poliquin-Lasnier 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 Clinique Neuro-Outaouais in Gatineau, QC, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring quality and safety in every aspect of patient care.

Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 10 years of experience as a Neurologist since 2014. She has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice Neurology (Disorders of the Brain, Spinal Cord, Nerves, and Muscles) in Quebec. Her credentials reflect a commitment to ongoing professional development and clinical excellence in neurological medicine.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, integrating a holistic approach to neurological health with evidence-based practices. Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier is dedicated to ongoing patient education and support, fostering a collaborative environment to help patients in Gatineau understand their conditions and treatment options. She speaks French fluently and is committed to providing accessible, compassionate care to her diverse patient community.

Dr. Laurence Poliquin-Lasnier addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

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.
• Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.

Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases

• Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, leading to brain cell damage.
• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) / Mini-Stroke: A temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, often a warning sign for a future stroke.
• Carotid Artery Stenosis (Symptomatic): Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, increasing stroke risk if it causes neurological symptoms.

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

• Generalized Epilepsy (e.g., Tonic-Clonic, Absence Seizures): Seizures that affect both sides of the brain from the onset, leading to various types of convulsions or alterations in consciousness.
• 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.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Laurence Poliquin-Lasnier.

• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier 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-Outaouais is situated in Gatineau's Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighbourhood, within easy reach of public transit options including the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), which includes the Rapibus BRT line. The clinic is conveniently located near the UQO Campus St-Joseph, making it accessible for students and local residents alike. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing ease of access for those arriving by car. Whether you are coming for a routine consultation or a specialized neurological assessment, Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier's practice is committed to providing accessible, patient-focused neurological care in a welcoming environment.

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

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier, 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. Poliquin-Lasnier's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier 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 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. Poliquin-Lasnier 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. Poliquin-Lasnier 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 Neurologist do for stroke patients?

For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.

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. Poliquin-Lasnier if needed.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier?

Your first appointment with Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier will likely be quite thorough. She 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. Poliquin-Lasnier 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.

Clinique Neuro-Outaouais
200-209 Rue Gamelin
Gatineau, QC J8Y 1W2

Phone: (819) 777-2500 | Fax: (819) 777-2502

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Poliquin-Lasnier 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. Poliquin-Lasnier 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=14559