Dr. Maryse Bélanger – Pulmonologist | Gatineau, QC

Dr. Maryse Bélanger is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at CISSSO - hôpital de Hull, Pneumologie in Gatineau, QC, Dr. Bélanger is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Bélanger is licensed by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and upholds the highest professional and ethical standards of medical practice in QC. Dr. Bélanger's primary role is as a certified specialist in Respirology (also known as Pulmonology), focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. The goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients with breathing disorders. Dr. Bélanger serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.

Dr. Maryse Bélanger earned a Medical Degree in 2019. Following this, Dr. Bélanger completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 6 years of specialized practice since 2019, Dr. Bélanger's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Bélanger is dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest advancements in respiratory medicine to provide optimal patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Bélanger's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care; a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle; empowering patients through clear education about their lung condition and active involvement in their management. Dr. Bélanger offers consultations in French.

As a Pneumologue (Respirologue), Dr. Maryse Bélanger diagnoses and manages a wide array of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including but not limited to:

Lung Infections

• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Involvement in the diagnosis and respiratory management of active pulmonary tuberculosis and latent TB infection, often in collaboration with public health.
• Pneumonia: Management of community-acquired, hospital-acquired, and aspiration pneumonia.
• Bronchitis (Acute): Differentiating from chronic bronchitis and providing symptomatic relief for short-term airway inflammation.

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Identifying and eliminating exposure to the offending antigen, and managing airway inflammation with medication if needed.
• Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary Manifestations): Monitoring lung function and managing inflammation in patients with sarcoidosis affecting the lungs.

Pleural Diseases

• Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Identifying the underlying cause, such as viral infection or autoimmune disease, and managing pain and inflammation.
• Pleural Effusion: Performing diagnostic and therapeutic thoracentesis to remove fluid and identify underlying conditions like infection, heart failure, or malignancy.

Airway Diseases

• Chronic Bronchitis: A component of COPD, managed with strategies to reduce airway inflammation and improve mucus clearance.
• Emphysema: Managing this lung condition where the air sacs (alveoli) are damaged and enlarged, causing breathlessness.
• Asthma: Developing personalized asthma action plans to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Bélanger, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Ensuring patients can effectively self-administer their prescribed respiratory medications for optimal therapeutic benefit.
• Asthma Management and Education: Helping patients achieve optimal asthma control, reduce exacerbations, and improve their quality of life.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Referral: Advocating for participation in structured exercise and education programs tailored for individuals with respiratory conditions.
• Chest Imaging Interpretation: Analyzing radiological images to detect signs of infection, inflammation, tumors, or structural lung changes.
• Diagnostic Bronchoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to examine the inside of the lungs' airways for diagnostic purposes.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Bélanger. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any test or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation or speak with your referring physician.

All services by Dr. Maryse Bélanger adhere to the scope of practice for Pneumologue (Respirologue)s in QC and the standards of The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

At CISSSO - hôpital de Hull, Pneumologie, the primary aim is to work collaboratively with you to manage your respiratory condition effectively, improve your breathing, and enhance your overall quality of life. Dr. Bélanger frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• At Dr. Bélanger's clinic, addressing their asthma not being well-controlled, with frequent attacks or need for their rescue inhaler means focusing on patient goals. Achieving reduced anxiety related to their breathing difficulties helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to gardening or engaging in other light outdoor activities they enjoy.
• Dr. Bélanger provides dedicated support for patients going through finding it harder and harder to breathe during exercise or daily tasks, always aiming for positive outcomes like feeling supported and well-informed throughout their treatment journey, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as performing daily household chores like cleaning or grocery shopping without significant difficulty.
• With Dr. Bélanger's compassionate and skilled respiratory care, managing feeling short of breath much of the time, even with little activity is focused on achieving slowed progression of their chronic lung disease where possible. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to attending social events and feeling confident in their ability to manage their breathing without severe breathing concerns.
• Many people seek Dr. Bélanger's professional help and expertise when dealing with coughing up blood or blood-streaked mucus. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently feeling more confident in managing their respiratory condition day-to-day, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to playing with their children or grandchildren with more ease.

Your personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Bélanger, will be tailored to address your specific respiratory needs and health goals. Dr. Bélanger is dedicated to providing expert care and empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to achieve their best possible respiratory health.

Dr. Bélanger practices at CISSSO - hôpital de Hull, Pneumologie, located in the Hull Sector West (Val-Tétreau, Manoir des Trembles) neighborhood of Gatineau. The clinic enjoys convenient proximity to Les Galeries de Hull and is easily accessible via Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT. Information regarding parking options can be provided when you call to book your appointment.

What does a Respirologist / Pulmonologist like Dr. Bélanger do?

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Bélanger is a medical doctor (physician) specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing lung and respiratory system diseases and conditions. This includes asthma, COPD (emphysema, chronic bronchitis), pneumonia, lung cancer, sleep apnea, interstitial lung diseases, and pleural diseases. Their goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath and cough, and enhance quality of life for people with breathing problems. They use various diagnostic tools like pulmonary function tests and bronchoscopy, and treatments including medications, inhalers, oxygen therapy, and management of devices like CPAP machines.

Do I typically need a referral to see a Respirologist (Pulmonologist) like Dr. Bélanger?

In QC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally needed to see a Respirologist like Dr. Bélanger for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and Dr. Bélanger has the necessary medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a respiratory assessment.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Bélanger at CISSSO - hôpital de Hull, Pneumologie?

Your first visit with Dr. Bélanger will involve a comprehensive respiratory assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, current respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, wheezing), how symptoms impact daily activities, smoking history, environmental exposures, and previous treatments. Dr. Bélanger will perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the respiratory system. Any prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this, Dr. Bélanger will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations (like PFTs, sleep study, or bronchoscopy), and outline treatment options, working with you to establish health goals.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Bélanger covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ))?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Respirologist like Dr. Bélanger are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC, with a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic tests like PFTs and bronchoscopies are also usually covered. However, some specific treatments, devices (e.g., CPAP machines, some specialized inhalers), or medications may not be fully covered or may have co-payments. Inquire with CISSSO - hôpital de Hull, Pneumologie about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance, if any.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Bélanger recommend them?

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are non-invasive breathing tests measuring how well the lungs are working. They assess lung volume, airflow rates, and gas exchange. Dr. Bélanger might recommend PFTs to help diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or to assess the severity of a known lung disease, monitor its progression, or evaluate treatment effectiveness. Common PFTs include spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusing capacity tests.

Can Dr. Bélanger help manage chronic conditions like asthma or COPD?

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Bélanger are experts in the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD. After a thorough assessment, Dr. Bélanger develops a personalized management plan. This may include prescribing inhaler medications, educating patients on inhaler technique, developing action plans for flare-ups, advising on trigger avoidance, recommending smoking cessation programs, and coordinating pulmonary rehabilitation. The goal is to optimize symptom control, reduce exacerbations, improve lung function, and enhance quality of life.

CISSSO - hôpital de Hull, Pneumologie
116 Boul Lionel-Émond
Gatineau, QC, J8Y 1W7

Phone: (819) 966-6200

Dr. Maryse Bélanger is a licensed Pneumologue (Respirologue) in QC, regulated by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Code des professions & Loi médicale (Québec).

License Number: 19929

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=19929

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Bélanger. Dr. Bélanger and the team are dedicated to providing comprehensive respiratory care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or severe difficulty breathing, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.