About
Dr. Mélissa Ouellette is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at facilities in Saint-Jérôme, QC, she contributes to the surgical and procedural teams, ensuring adherence to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). She specializes in delivering comprehensive care in Anesthesiology, prioritizing patient safety and comfort throughout the perioperative period.
Dr. Ouellette graduated with a Medical Degree in 2015 and obtained her specialty certification in Anesthesiology on July 1, 2015. She completed extensive post-graduate medical training in Anesthesiology, acquiring the skills necessary to manage anesthesia in a variety of clinical settings. Her training includes advanced expertise in airway management, pain control, and critical care, ensuring she is well-equipped to handle complex cases.
Her clinical philosophy is grounded in an evidence-based and informative approach, emphasizing patient safety and individualized care. She is committed to staying current with the latest advancements in anesthetic techniques and strives to provide the highest quality care to her patients in Saint-Jérôme. Fluent in French, Dr. Ouellette communicates clearly and effectively with her patients, ensuring they are well-informed and comfortable throughout their procedures.
- General Anesthesia Administration: Inducing and maintaining a controlled state of unconsciousness ('sleep') using intravenous or inhaled medications, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during major surgery.
- Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
- Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) / Sedation: Providing varying levels of sedation (light to deep) and analgesia, combined with close monitoring of vital signs, for procedures not requiring general anesthesia.
- Intraoperative Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, breathing) and anesthetic depth throughout the procedure to ensure patient safety.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Ouellette (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).
Dr. Mélissa Ouellette practices primarily at Hôtel Dieu de Saint-Jérôme, located in the Downtown Saint-Jérôme, Saint-Antoine Sector neighborhood. The facility is situated near Théâtre Gilles-Vigneault, easily accessible via exo (Secteur Laurentides - Bus). The location offers convenient access for patients in the region. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Ouellette? Is it covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?
- In QC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Ouellette during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) for specific circumstances.
- Can I directly request Dr. Ouellette for my anesthesia?
- While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Ouellette from the team covering your procedure.
- What if I have allergies or previous bad reactions to anesthesia?
- It is absolutely crucial to inform Dr. Ouellette during your pre-anesthetic assessment about any known allergies (to medications, latex, food, etc.) and any previous experiences (good or bad) with anesthesia or sedation. This information helps tailor a safe plan and avoid agents you may react to.
- What's the difference between an Anesthesiologist and other anesthesia providers?
- In Canada, an Anesthesiologist is a medical doctor (MD) with extensive postgraduate specialty training (typically 5+ years after medical school) covering all aspects of anesthesia, critical care, and pain management. They lead the anesthesia care team. Other professionals, like respiratory therapists or specialized nurses, may assist under the direct supervision of the Anesthesiologist.
- What about nausea and vomiting after anesthesia?
- Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) can occur, but Anesthesiologists like Dr. Ouellette use strategies to prevent it, especially for patients at higher risk. This may include specific anesthetic techniques, administering anti-nausea medications before, during, or after the procedure, and ensuring adequate hydration. If you do experience nausea, effective treatments are available in the recovery room.
Hôtel dieu de Saint-Jérôme
290 rue de Montigny
Saint-Jérôme, QC J7Z 5T3
Phone: (450) 432-2777
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Ouellette is a licensed physician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=15394