Dr. Louis-Frédéric Martin – Nephrologist | Saint-Hyacinthe, QC

Dr. Louis-Frédéric Martin is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at Hôpital Honoré-Mercier in Saint-Hyacinthe, 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), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based treatment. As a Nephrologist, he specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers comprehensive care for a wide range of kidney conditions, from early detection and prevention to advanced disease management, including support for patients on dialysis.

Dr. Martin graduated with a Medical Degree in 2013. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. He has been practicing as a Nephrologist for over 11 years, since 2013, gaining extensive experience in the field. He holds the necessary certifications to practice Nephrology in Quebec, having completed rigorous postgraduate training and passing the certification requirements outlined by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). His professional credentials reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Martin's professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for patients with kidney disease. He emphasizes educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them to participate actively in their care decisions. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and the latest therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes. His approach includes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. He values collaborative care, working closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to ensure holistic and personalized patient care in Saint-Hyacinthe. Dr. Martin provides nephrology consultations and treatments in French, ensuring clear communication and understanding for his patients.

Dr. Louis-Frédéric Martin provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Glomerular Diseases (Glomerulonephritis)

Dr. Martin addresses diagnosis often requires a kidney biopsy, and treatment may involve immunosuppressive medications.

• Nephrotic Syndrome: Treatment aims to reduce proteinuria and manage symptoms.
• Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): Can be primary or secondary to other conditions. Treatment options vary.
• Lupus Nephritis: Regular screening for kidney involvement is crucial for lupus patients.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Dr. Martin addresses requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and support kidney recovery.

• Pre-renal AKI: Treatment focuses on restoring kidney perfusion by addressing the underlying cause (e.g., fluid resuscitation).
• Post-renal AKI: Caused by an obstruction in the urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones, enlarged prostate, tumors) that prevents urine from draining.
• Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Risk factors include pre-existing CKD, diabetes, and dehydration.

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Martin 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.

• Secondary Hypertension: Important to consider in young patients or those with abrupt onset of severe hypertension.
• Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Imbalances in the body's sodium and water levels, which can lead to serious neurological and systemic complications.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Kidneys play a key role in regulating acid-base balance. Disorders can be respiratory or metabolic.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Louis-Frédéric Martin is necessary.

• Comprehensive Nephrology Consultation: Second opinion consultations for complex kidney conditions.
• Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Coordination with vascular surgeons and interventional radiologists for access creation and maintenance.
• Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Comprehensive care for patients with inherited kidney diseases such as Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).
• Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Includes patient training, ongoing monitoring, and management of peritoneal dialysis-related issues.
• Anemia and Mineral & Bone Disorder Management in CKD: Treatment of anemia associated with chronic kidney disease using iron therapy and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs).

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Martin.

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. Martin's primary nephrology clinic is situated within the Hôpital Honoré-Mercier in Saint-Hyacinthe, QC. The clinic is located in the Saint-Hyacinthe neighborhood, close to various medical facilities and diagnostic services, making it convenient for patients to access comprehensive kidney care. The location is easily accessible via local public transit routes, and the facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available for patients, ensuring a smooth visit for those seeking specialized nephrology services. The clinic offers a professional and welcoming environment dedicated to providing excellent kidney health management and treatment.

Are services from Dr. Martin covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Martin, 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. Martin'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 does a Nephrologist like Dr. Martin specialize in?

A Nephrologist, such as Dr. Martin, is a medical doctor (MD) who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of kidney diseases. This includes managing conditions like chronic kidney disease (CKD), acute kidney injury (AKI), hypertension (high blood pressure), electrolyte imbalances, and providing care for patients requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. A Nephrologist, specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders.

When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Martin?

A consultation with Dr. Martin is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Martin and a Urologist?

A Nephrologist like Dr. Martin is a medical specialist who focuses on diagnosing and managing diseases that affect kidney function, such as chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, dialysis, and medical aspects of kidney transplantation. Urologists are surgical specialists who treat anatomical or structural problems of the kidneys and urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones requiring surgery, bladder issues, prostate problems, cancers of the kidney/bladder/prostate). While both deal with kidneys, Nephrologists manage kidney function and disease medically, whereas Urologists manage surgically and address urinary tract structures.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Martin?

For most consultations with Dr. Martin that are medically necessary and covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), a referral from a family doctor or another specialist (like an internist or endocrinologist) is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. In urgent situations, your referring doctor will facilitate an expedited consultation. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (450) 771-3498.

Hôpital Honoré-Mercier
2750 boul Laframboise
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 4Y8

Office Phone: (450) 771-3333 | Office Fax: (450) 771-3498

Dr. Martin 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. Martin, particularly for services covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).

Verify Dr. Martin's registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=13179