About
With expertise in Cardiology, Dr. Louis Vachon provides comprehensive consultations and follow-up care for heart-related conditions. Practicing in Gatineau, QC, he serves patients from the surrounding region, adhering to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). He is dedicated to delivering patient-centered, evidence-based cardiovascular care tailored to individual needs.
Dr. Vachon graduated with a Medical Degree in 1978 and holds a specialty certification in Cardiology issued October 11, 1978. He completed extensive postgraduate medical training in Cardiology, including residency and specialized fellowships, to ensure a thorough understanding of complex cardiovascular diseases and their management.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes professionalism, clinical excellence, and compassionate patient care. Dr. Vachon is committed to ongoing education and staying current with advancements in cardiovascular medicine. He communicates fluently in French, ensuring clear and effective communication with his patients in Gatineau and the broader Francophone community.
Dr. Vachon provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:
Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management
- Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.
- Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.
- Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.
Heart Rhythm Disorders (Arrhythmias)
- Syncope (Fainting) - Cardiac Causes: Cardiovascular assessment to identify or rule out heart-related causes of fainting or loss of consciousness.
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Evaluation and management of various types of rapid heart rhythms originating above the ventricles.
- Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate) & Heart Block: Diagnosing causes of slow heart rates and conduction system problems, including assessing the need for pacemakers.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease
- Management after Coronary Stenting (PCI): Monitoring and medical management following procedures to open blocked heart arteries with stents, including antiplatelet therapy guidance.
- Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
- Stable Angina Pectoris: Managing chest discomfort or pressure caused by narrowed heart arteries, typically occurring during exertion or stress.
Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Vachon is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.
- Consultation for Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Investigating the potential cardiac causes of breathlessness.
- Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
- Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Ambulatory ECG (Holter & Event Monitor) Interpretation: Analyzing recordings from portable heart monitors worn for 24 hours up to several weeks to diagnose intermittent arrhythmias or correlate symptoms with heart rhythm.
- Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Vachon. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).
Dr. Vachon primarily practices at his private office located in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. The practice is conveniently situated near the Federal Government Buildings at Terrasses de la Chaudière. Patients can easily access the clinic via the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT system. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Vachon covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?
- Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Vachon are typically covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) or the testing facility.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Vachon?
- Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vachon. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.
- What does a Cardiologist specialize in?
- A Cardiologist is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to the heart and blood vessels (the cardiovascular system). This includes conditions like coronary artery disease (Post-Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) Care), heart attacks, heart failure (Management after Coronary Stenting (PCI)), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats like Stable Angina Pectoris), valve problems, and high blood pressure.
- Can my spouse or family member come with me?
- Yes, you are welcome to bring someone with you for support or to help listen and ask questions during your appointment with Dr. Vachon. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.
Bureau privé
225-214 boul de la Cité des Jeunes
Gatineau, QC J8Y 6S8
Phone: (819) 775-3344 | Fax: (819) 775-3345
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Vachon is a licensed physician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=78622