Dr. Marie-Christine Lepage

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

Common Acute Conditions

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs - Colds, Flu, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis): Care for acute respiratory illnesses, including advice on symptom management, appropriate use of antibiotics (only if bacterial infection is confirmed or highly suspected), and guidance on when to seek further medical attention for complications.
• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Management of acute migraine episodes or severe tension headaches, including advice on abortive medications, lifestyle adjustments during an attack, and strategies for future prevention.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Care for acute lung infections, focusing on appropriate antimicrobial therapy when indicated, supportive measures (rest, hydration, symptom relief), and guidance for a full recovery, with escalation to hospital care if severe.
• Common Acute Skin Conditions (Rashes, Infections, Bites, Minor Burns): Addressing sudden onset skin problems, providing effective treatment, advising on skin care and hygiene to promote healing, and identifying potential triggers for allergic or irritant conditions.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Childhood Immunization Schedule Management & Counseling: Keeping your child's vaccinations fully up-to-date for their individual protection and to contribute to community (herd) immunity, thereby protecting vulnerable individuals.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Creating a safe, non-judgmental, and youth-friendly healthcare environment where teenagers feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly, receive accurate information, build a trusting relationship with their doctor, and are empowered to take charge of their health.
• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Comprehensive preventative care designed to support the healthy physical, cognitive, and emotional development of children from birth, building a strong foundation for lifelong health.

Mental Health Concerns

• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Thoroughly evaluating persistent sleep problems (difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, early morning awakening, non-restorative sleep), offering education on optimal sleep hygiene, principles of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or facilitating referrals for it, addressing underlying contributing factors (e.g., anxiety, pain, medications, restless legs syndrome), and judiciously considering short-term medication if necessary.
• Initial Assessment & Referral for Other Mental Health Concerns (e.g., OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis): Providing a safe and confidential first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of other mental health conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, bipolar disorder, or early psychosis. Includes initial screening, supportive listening, crisis intervention if needed, risk assessment, and prompt, appropriate referral to specialized psychiatric, psychological, or emergency mental health services for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.
• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Helping individuals build resilience, develop adaptive coping mechanisms (e.g., problem-solving, relaxation techniques, mindfulness), and navigate stressful periods effectively to protect their mental and physical health.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): A comprehensive and collaborative approach to ADHD care, addressing core symptoms and associated impairments across the lifespan, often involving a multidisciplinary team approach.

Common Chronic Conditions

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis): Helping individuals with chronic bronchitis or emphysema manage their symptoms effectively, improve exercise tolerance, and maintain the best possible lung function through a multidisciplinary approach.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus & Prediabetes: Proactive, team-based care (often involving dietitians, diabetes educators, pharmacists) for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, aiming to achieve optimal glycemic control, reduce cardiovascular risk, and improve overall quality of life.
• Osteoarthritis & Other Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain (e.g., Chronic Back/Neck Pain, Fibromyalgia): Developing personalized strategies to reduce chronic joint and muscle pain, improve mobility and function, enhance coping mechanisms, and improve overall quality of life for those living with conditions like arthritis, persistent back pain or fibromyalgia.

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

• Primary Care for Overuse & Repetitive Strain Injuries: Advising on activity modification, ergonomic adjustments, stretching/strengthening exercises, and pain relief measures for overuse injuries.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Diagnosing and treating frequent acute illnesses in children and adolescents, such as ear infections (otitis media), streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat), common colds, influenza, croup, bronchiolitis, roseola, hand-foot-mouth disease, gastroenteritis, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Incl. Sexual Health, Mental Health, Lifestyle): Supporting the unique physical, emotional, and social health needs of adolescents during a critical period of development.
• Occupational Health Aspects & Work-Related Health Concerns (Initial Assessment): Offering primary care support for work-related health issues, with referrals to occupational medicine specialists if needed.
• Chronic Respiratory Disease Care (Asthma, COPD, Chronic Bronchitis): Providing ongoing care for individuals with asthma or COPD to optimize symptom control, reduce frequency of flare-ups, and improve exercise tolerance and quality of life.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Lepage. 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 CMSSS d'Argenteuil - CISSS des Laurentides, 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 Lepage frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Through Dr Lepage's guidance, patients with feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or experiencing vertigo (spinning sensations) more often than usual often find they can achieve having a reliable, knowledgeable, consistently accessible, and compassionate go-to medical professional in Dr Lepage for the vast majority of their entire family's diverse and evolving health needs, from newborn care and pediatrics through to adult medicine and geriatrics and once again pursue successfully maintaining their cherished personal independence in all complex daily routines, intricate personal care tasks, and instrumental activities of daily living, which is especially crucial for aging seniors or individuals managing disabilities.
• Dr Lepage's care for difficulty concentrating at work or school that's new for them is designed to result in obtaining all necessary medical documentation, forms, and reports for work, school, travel, or insurance purposes efficiently, accurately, and without undue hassle through Dr Lepage's supportive office team, so patients can resume activities such as feeling physically strong, mentally resilient, and emotionally capable of consistently handling the often unpredictable and demanding day-to-day responsibilities of active parenting, grand-parenting, or intensive caregiving roles with confidence.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr Lepage, 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 Lepage practices at CMSSS d'Argenteuil - CISSS des Laurentides, situated in a family medical practice in the central Lachute neighborhood of Lachute. 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.

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

Your family doctor (QC) is your primary healthcare provider, expertly trained to care for a wide spectrum of health issues, from newborns to seniors. She manages acute illnesses and injuries, oversees the care of long-term chronic diseases, provides routine health screenings and lifestyle counseling, administers vaccinations, and ensures you get access to specialized medical services through referrals when needed. The continuity of care she provides, understanding your health history and individual needs, is fundamental to effective family medicine.

What should I expect during my first 'meet and greet' or new patient intake appointment with Dr Lepage?

When you first meet Dr Lepage as a new patient, expect to spend time discussing your complete health profile. She will likely ask about your past medical history, significant family illnesses, all current medications (including vitamins and supplements), allergies, lifestyle factors like diet and exercise, and any specific health concerns or goals you have. This comprehensive intake helps Dr Lepage understand your overall health status and begin to formulate a long-term care plan. It's also an excellent time to ask any questions you may have about her approach to medicine or clinic procedures.

What happens if Dr Lepage determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist in Canada usually requires a referral from your family doctor, like Dr Lepage. After assessing your condition, if Dr Lepage believes specialist care is necessary for diagnosis or management, she will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral. Our office will handle sending the required information to the specialist. You will then typically be contacted by the specialist's office to arrange your appointment. Remember that specialist wait times can sometimes be long, so Dr Lepage will continue to manage your care and provide support in the interim.

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 College of Physicians and Surgeons of Quebec (Collège des médecins du Québec) website often has a "Find a Doctor" tool or list. 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 new patient clinics directly may yield results. Be aware that it may take time to find a suitable family doctor.

What does 'preventative care' involve with a family doctor like Dr Lepage?

Preventative care with Dr Lepage focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious or cause symptoms. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (periodic health exams), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests, mammograms, colon cancer screening, PSA discussions), immunizations (flu shots, travel vaccines, routine boosters), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The primary goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early when they are most treatable, and promote your long-term health and well-being.

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

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Quebec if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like the Guichet d'accès à un médecin de famille (GAMF) or your local health authority website may be helpful. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see most medical specialists.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr Lepage?

For most prescription refills, contact your pharmacy at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often fax a refill request to Dr. Lepage's office. Allow 2-3 business days for processing. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics, controlled substances), or if it's been a while since your last visit, an appointment may be needed. Request refills proactively.

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 RAMQ for eligible Quebec residents with a valid health card. However, some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms) may not be covered and may incur fees. Confirm with CMSSS d'Argenteuil - CISSS des Laurentides if you have questions about specific services or fees.

CMSSS d'Argenteuil - CISSS des Laurentides
145 Av de la Providence
Lachute, QC, J8H 4C7

Phone: (450) 562-1799

Dr. Marie-Christine Lepage 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: 99123

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=99123

Family doctors like Dr Lepage 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.