About
Dr. Mario Enrique Paniagua Medina is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in Sorel-Tracy, QC, he serves patients from the surrounding region, providing comprehensive care in Cardiology. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring safe and effective medical services for adults seeking expert cardiovascular care.
Dr. Paniagua Medina graduated with a Medical Degree in 2013 and holds a specialty certification in Cardiology issued on April 18, 2013. He completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology, including clinical rotations and research, to develop a thorough understanding of cardiovascular medicine. His certifications reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest level of expertise and staying current with medical advances.
His clinical philosophy is centered on reassuring and patient-focused care. Dr. Paniagua Medina is committed to building trust and understanding with each patient, ensuring they feel supported throughout their health journey. He offers services primarily in French and is dedicated to serving the community of Sorel-Tracy with compassion and professionalism.
Dr. Paniagua Medina provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:
Heart Rhythm Disorders (Arrhythmias)
- Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate) & Heart Block: Diagnosing causes of slow heart rates and conduction system problems, including assessing the need for pacemakers.
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Evaluation and management of various types of rapid heart rhythms originating above the ventricles.
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) & Atrial Flutter: Diagnosis, rhythm and rate control strategies, and assessment for stroke prevention therapy (anticoagulation).
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease
- Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.
- Post-Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) Care: Comprehensive follow-up care focused on recovery, secondary prevention, risk factor management, and medication optimization after a heart attack.
- Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy
- Pulmonary Hypertension Evaluation: Assessing for high blood pressure in the lung arteries, often related to underlying heart or lung conditions.
- Management Post-Heart Transplant: Specialized follow-up care for patients who have received a heart transplant (often in dedicated clinics).
- Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.
Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Paniagua Medina is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.
- Lipid Management (Cholesterol Treatment): Specialized management of high cholesterol and other lipid disorders using lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
- Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment & Modification: Comprehensive evaluation of individual risk factors (smoking, diet, exercise, family history, etc.) and developing personalized prevention strategies.
- Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) Interpretation: Analyzing 24-hour blood pressure readings to diagnose hypertension, assess treatment effectiveness, and identify patterns like 'white coat' hypertension.
- Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
- Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Paniagua Medina. 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. Paniagua Medina primarily practices at Hôtel-Dieu de Sorel, conveniently situated near the central Sorel-Tracy neighborhood of Sorel-Tracy. The facility is close to local points of interest such as the Sorel-Tracy Museum and the Marina de Sorel. Patients can access the location via local public transit, which offers easy and reliable transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Paniagua Medina covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?
- Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Paniagua Medina 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. Paniagua Medina?
- Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Paniagua Medina. 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 (Stable Angina Pectoris), heart attacks, heart failure (Pericardial Diseases (e.g., Pericarditis)), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats like Complex Hypertension Management), valve problems, and high blood pressure.
- Will Dr. Paniagua Medina communicate with my family doctor?
- Yes, effective communication is key. Dr. Paniagua Medina will send a detailed consultation report with findings and recommendations back to your referring physician to ensure seamless coordination of your overall medical care.
- How long are cardiology appointments usually?
- Your first consultation with Dr. Paniagua Medina may take 45-75 minutes to allow for a thorough history and examination. Follow-up visits are typically shorter, around 15-30 minutes, depending on what needs to be discussed or reviewed. Please allow extra time for check-in and potential delays.
- What if I experience chest pain or other urgent symptoms?
- If you experience sudden chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or symptoms suggestive of a stroke (like sudden weakness or speech difficulty), **call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department immediately.** Do not wait for an appointment. Dr. Paniagua Medina's office manages scheduled consultations and cannot provide emergency care.
Hôtel-Dieu de Sorel
400 av de l'Hôtel-Dieu
Sorel-Tracy, QC J3P 1N5
Phone: (450) 746-6000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Paniagua Medina 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=13109