About
Dr. Louis-Denis Poulin is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at CHU Québec Université Laval-Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, Service de néphrologie in Québec, QC, he is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). Dr. Poulin's role encompasses the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a broad spectrum of care for a wide range of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.
He graduated with a Medical Degree in 1982. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, and then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. With over 35 years of experience practicing as a Nephrologist since 1989, he has developed a profound expertise in the field. Dr. Poulin has completed rigorous postgraduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice Nephrology in Québec, ensuring his adherence to the highest standards of medical practice and continuous professional development.
Dr. Poulin's professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for his patients. He emphasizes educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them through shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and the latest therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes. His approach focuses on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. Committed to collaborative care, he works closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to address all aspects of his patients’ health. Dr. Poulin provides nephrology consultations and treatments in French, ensuring clear communication and patient comfort in Québec.
Dr. Louis-Denis Poulin provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Poulin addresses early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CKD.
- Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease due to Diabetes): A common complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage the kidneys' filtering units.
- Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis (Kidney Disease due to High Blood Pressure): Often coexists with other forms of kidney disease.
- Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Intensive management of complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolyte imbalance) and preparation for renal replacement therapy.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Poulin addresses management of high blood pressure, especially when it's difficult to control or related to kidney disease, and disorders of body salts and minerals.
- Resistant Hypertension: High blood pressure that remains above goal despite treatment with three or more antihypertensive medications of different classes, including a diuretic.
- Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Imbalances in the body's pH level, either too acidic (acidosis) or too alkaline (alkalosis).
- Secondary Hypertension: High blood pressure caused by an underlying medical condition, such as kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or renal artery stenosis.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Poulin addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Management involves treating the specific kidney injury, supportive care, and sometimes dialysis.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Risk factors include pre-existing CKD, diabetes, and dehydration.
- Post-renal AKI: Treatment involves relieving the obstruction to allow normal urine flow.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Louis-Denis Poulin is necessary.
- Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Management of CKD-Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD) through dietary advice, phosphate binders, and vitamin D analogues.
- Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Ongoing care for patients with all stages of chronic kidney disease, focusing on slowing progression and managing complications.
- Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Focus on blood sugar control, blood pressure management, and use of kidney-protective medications.
- Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Evaluation and management of various glomerular diseases like IgA nephropathy, FSGS, lupus nephritis, and membranous nephropathy.
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Addressing common complications of dialysis such as anemia, mineral and bone disorders, cardiovascular issues, and infections.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Poulin.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Poulin practices primarily at the Nephrology clinic located within the CHU Québec Université Laval-Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, in the Vieux-Québec (Upper Town), Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood. The clinic is situated near the Centre Vidéotron (Arena) and is easily accessible via the Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC). The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive kidney care. Patients can usually find convenient parking options in proximity to the clinic, ensuring easy access for appointments.
- What are some common kidney conditions treated by Dr. Poulin?
- Dr. Poulin treats a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Common ones include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) from various causes (like diabetes and hypertension), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), Glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters), Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), electrolyte and acid-base disorders, and complications requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Poulin?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Poulin for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)). This ensures that Dr. Poulin receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (418) 691-5757.
- Are services from Dr. Poulin covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Poulin, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Poulin's office or Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Poulin might discuss?
- If your kidney function declines significantly, Dr. Poulin may discuss renal replacement therapies, primarily hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering your blood using an external machine, usually at a dialysis center (or sometimes at home). Peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of your abdomen (peritoneum) and a special solution to filter blood inside your body, and is typically done at home. Dr. Poulin will explain the benefits and drawbacks of each, helping you choose the best option for your lifestyle and medical condition.
- What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Poulin?
- As a Nephrologist, Dr. Poulin plays a crucial role in the kidney transplant process. This includes evaluating your suitability for a transplant, managing your health while on the waiting list, coordinating with the transplant surgical team, and providing comprehensive medical care after the transplant to manage immunosuppressive medications and monitor for complications or rejection. He works as part of a multidisciplinary transplant team.
CHU Québec Université Laval-Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, Service de néphrologie
11 Côte du Palais
Québec, QC G1R 2J6
Office Phone: (418) 691-5464 | Office Fax: (418) 691-5757
Dr. Poulin is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Poulin, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
Verify Dr. Poulin's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=82036