Dr. Raphaëlle Chrétien

Dr. Raphaëlle Chrétien provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
• Minor Injuries (Cuts, Bruises, Sprains): Common physical injuries that occur during childhood play and activities.
• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.
• Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa - initial assessment & coordination): Serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions and ability to function.
• Menstrual Disorders (e.g., irregular periods, dysmenorrhea): Irregular, heavy, or painful periods in adolescent girls.
• Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.

This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Raphaëlle Chrétien.

• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
• Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.

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. Chrétien 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.

Hôpital de Chicoutimi, located in the vibrant neighborhood near central Chicoutimi, offers accessible and specialized pediatric care within a reputable hospital setting. The facility is situated close to notable local points of interest, making it convenient for families to access. Easily reachable via local public transit, the hospital is committed to serving the community with excellent healthcare services. The pediatric unit where Dr. Chrétien practices is wheelchair accessible and designed to be welcoming to children and families. Metered street parking and nearby lots provide ample options for visitors, ensuring a hassle-free experience for patients and their families.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Chrétien 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. Chrétien 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. Chrétien's office, especially for subspecialty care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Chrétien, a Pediatrician?

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Chrétien is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Chrétien 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. Chrétien'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.

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. Chrétien 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. Chrétien if they are sick?

You should contact Dr. Chrétien'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.

If my child is referred to a pediatric subspecialist, how can I prepare for the appointment?

If Dr. Chrétien or your family doctor refers your child to a subspecialist, it's helpful to prepare for the appointment. Bring any relevant medical records, test results, a list of current medications, and your child's health card. Write down your questions and concerns beforehand. Be prepared to discuss your child's symptoms, medical history, and any family history that might be relevant. Understanding the reason for the referral and what you hope to gain from the visit can make the consultation more effective.

Hôpital de Chicoutimi
305 rue Saint Vallier
Chicoutimi, QC G7H 5H6

Phone: (418) 541-1000

The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.

Dr. Chrétien is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Dr. Chrétien 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=16165