Dr. Mélissa Larue is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Hopital de Rimouski, Pédiatrie in Rimouski, QC, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. She adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that her practice aligns with recognized professional guidelines. Dr. Larue focuses on preventive care, well-child check-ups, immunizations, and the management of common childhood illnesses, promoting healthy growth and development from infancy through adolescence. Her approach is warm, reassuring, and centered on fostering a trusting relationship with her young patients and their families.
She holds a Medical Degree from a recognized institution and has accumulated over 7 years of experience practicing as a Pediatrician since 2017. Dr. Larue has completed extensive post-graduate training and maintains the necessary certifications to practice Pediatrics (Comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents) in Quebec. Her qualifications reflect her commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in child healthcare.
Guided by a philosophy of family-centered and evidence-based practice, Dr. Larue is dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of her young patients in Rimouski. She values collaboration with parents and other healthcare professionals to ensure each child receives personalized, attentive care. Fluent in French, she strives to make her services accessible and comforting for all families she serves.
Dr. Mélissa Larue provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
- Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting and diarrhea.
- Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
- Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
Adolescent Health Concerns
- Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
- Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
- Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Mélissa Larue.
- Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
- Mental Health Screening & Initial Support: Basic screening for common pediatric mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression) and providing initial support or referrals as needed.
- Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
- Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
- Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
- Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatrics (Comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. Larue or your healthcare team for details relevant to your child's care.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Hopital de Rimouski, Pédiatrie is situated in Rimouski's vibrant neighborhood near central Rimouski. The area is easily accessible via local public transit, making it convenient for families in the region to reach. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, fostering a friendly environment for young patients. Parking options include metered street parking and nearby parking lots, ensuring ease of access for visiting families. The practice's location is surrounded by local points of interest, offering a family-friendly atmosphere for those seeking pediatric care in Rimouski.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Larue covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Larue are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC. Some specialized tests, procedures, or medications prescribed by a subspecialist may require pre-authorization or might have specific coverage criteria. It's always a good idea to confirm coverage details with Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) or Dr. Larue's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Larue, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Larue is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Larue is a pediatric subspecialist (e.g., a Pediatric Cardiologist or Developmental Pediatrician), a referral from your child's family doctor or a general pediatrician is usually required for services to be covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). It's best to check with Dr. Larue's clinic directly regarding their new patient and referral policies. you may be able to book an appointment directly, especially if the practice is accepting new patients, or for newborn care.
- When and how does a child transition from a Pediatrician to an adult care physician?
- The transition from pediatric to adult healthcare typically occurs between the ages of 18 and 21, though it can vary based on individual needs and local practices. Dr. Larue will work with your adolescent and family to plan for this transition, especially if your child has ongoing or complex health needs. This process involves discussing the importance of continued care, helping to identify a suitable adult care physician (like a family doctor or adult subspecialist), and ensuring a smooth transfer of medical information and care responsibilities.
- My child is a picky eater. What advice can a pediatrician offer?
- It's very common for toddlers and young children to go through phases of picky eating. Dr. Larue can offer practical advice, such as maintaining a regular meal and snack schedule, offering a variety of healthy foods without pressure, involving your child in food preparation, and modeling healthy eating habits. She can also assess your child's growth and development to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition and rule out any underlying medical concerns. If needed, a referral to a dietitian may be considered.
- When should I take my child to see Dr. Larue if they are sick?
- You should contact Dr. Larue's office if your child has symptoms that concern you, such as a high or persistent fever (especially in infants), difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, few wet diapers), severe pain, vomiting or diarrhea that is persistent or severe, a rash you're unsure about, unusual lethargy or irritability, or if your child just doesn't seem like themselves. The clinic staff can help determine if your child needs to be seen and how soon. For emergencies, always go to the nearest emergency department or call 911.
- How does Dr. Larue help manage chronic health conditions in children?
- For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. Larue plays a key role in ongoing management. This includes regular monitoring, adjusting treatment plans as needed, educating the child and family about the condition, coordinating care with other specialists or therapists, and providing support to help the child live a full and active life. The goal is to optimize health, manage symptoms, and support the child's overall well-being and development.
- What can I do if my child is having trouble sleeping?
- Sleep is crucial for a child's development. If your child is having trouble sleeping, establishing a consistent bedtime routine is very important. This includes a calming wind-down period, a set bedtime, and ensuring their sleep environment is comfortable, dark, and quiet. Limiting screen time before bed can also help. Dr. Larue can discuss age-appropriate sleep needs, common sleep problems, and strategies to address them. Sometimes, underlying issues like anxiety or medical conditions can affect sleep, which Dr. Larue can help assess.
Hopital de Rimouski, Pédiatrie
150 av Rouleau
Rimouski, QC G5L 5T1
Phone: (418) 724-3000
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Larue is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Dr. Larue may accept new patients directly for general pediatric care or via referral, depending on clinic policy. Please contact the clinic for information on new patient registration and any referral requirements for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=17399