About
Dr. Monica Carol Beaulieu is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, BC, she is a trusted provider of specialized kidney care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate treatment. Dr. Beaulieu’s role is focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming environment for patients, emphasizing early detection, prevention, and advanced disease management, including support for those on dialysis.
She graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2001. Following medical school, she completed a residency in Internal Medicine, then pursued specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. She is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 18 years of experience since 2006. Dr. Beaulieu holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of nephrology care.
Dr. Beaulieu’s professional philosophy centers on preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for her patients. She dedicates herself to educating patients and their families about kidney health, empowering them in shared decision-making. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and the latest therapies, she aims for the best possible outcomes. Her approach emphasizes early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related complications. She values collaborative care, working closely with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other specialists to support her patients’ holistic well-being. All communication and patient care are conducted in English, with a focus on compassion and understanding.
Dr. Monica Beaulieu provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Dr. Beaulieu addresses a progressive loss of kidney function over months or years, affecting the body's ability to filter waste and maintain fluid balance.
- Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.
- Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Intensive management of complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolyte imbalance) and preparation for renal replacement therapy.
- Anemia of Chronic Kidney Disease: A common complication where damaged kidneys don't produce enough erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders
Dr. Beaulieu addresses nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex cases.
- Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Treatment targets the underlying cause and correction of the pH imbalance.
- Disorders of Sodium and Water Balance (Hyponatremia, Hypernatremia): Imbalances in the body's sodium and water levels, which can lead to serious neurological and systemic complications.
- Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Potentially life-threatening if severe.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
Dr. Beaulieu addresses a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days.
- Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: Preventive measures are important in high-risk patients.
- Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Direct damage to the kidney tissues, such as acute tubular necrosis (ATN) from toxins or ischemia, glomerulonephritis, or interstitial nephritis.
- Post-renal AKI: Caused by an obstruction in the urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones, enlarged prostate, tumors) that prevents urine from draining.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Monica Beaulieu is necessary.
- Management of Dialysis Complications: Proactive care to improve quality of life and outcomes for dialysis patients.
- Dialysis Access Planning and Coordination: Management of dialysis access complications like infections or thrombosis.
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Diagnosis and Management: Identification of underlying causes and implementation of supportive care to promote kidney recovery.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Includes lifestyle counseling, medication management, and coordination of multidisciplinary care.
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Management related to Kidney Disease: Utilizing ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and comprehensive medication strategies.
- Peritoneal Dialysis Program Management (CAPD/APD): Includes patient training, ongoing monitoring, and management of peritoneal dialysis-related issues.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Beaulieu.
All nephrology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Beaulieu practices primarily within the comprehensive kidney care services at St. Paul’s Hospital, located in the vibrant Yaletown and Downtown South neighborhoods of Vancouver. The hospital offers state-of-the-art facilities and is conveniently accessible via TransLink, including SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express - Waterfront services. The clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with ample parking options usually available nearby. Patients visiting Dr. Beaulieu will find a professional and welcoming environment dedicated to their kidney health and overall well-being.
- When should I see a Nephrologist like Dr. Beaulieu?
- A consultation with Dr. Beaulieu is recommended if your doctor detects abnormalities in kidney function tests, you have a strong family history of kidney disease, or you require specialized management for conditions like advanced chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or are being considered for dialysis or kidney transplant. Any sudden decline in kidney function also warrants urgent nephrology review.
- What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Beaulieu and a Urologist?
- The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Beaulieu, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.
- Are services from Dr. Beaulieu covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Beaulieu, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Beaulieu's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.
- How does Dr. Beaulieu help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?
- Dr. Beaulieu, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. She can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.
- What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Beaulieu might discuss?
- Dr. Beaulieu can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Beaulieu would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Beaulieu?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Beaulieu for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)). This ensures that Dr. Beaulieu receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 681-4482.
St. Pauls Hospital
608-1125 Howe St
Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y6
Office Phone: (604) 681-7191 | Office Fax: (604) 681-4482
Dr. Beaulieu is a licensed Nephrologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Beaulieu, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Beaulieu's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/325806/Beaulieu%2CMonica