Dr. Raymond Taillefer

• X-ray Interpretation (Radiography): Expert analysis and reporting of X-ray images for diagnosing conditions related to bones (fractures, arthritis), chest (pneumonia, lung nodules), and abdomen.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan Interpretation: Detailed review and reporting of cross-sectional CT images for evaluating trauma, cancer staging, vascular disease, infections, and other complex conditions throughout the body.
• Bone Densitometry (DEXA) Scan Interpretation: Analyzing DEXA scans to measure bone mineral density, assess osteoporosis risk, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Interpretation: Specialized analysis and reporting of MRI scans, providing detailed images of soft tissues, brain, spine, joints, abdomen, and pelvis without using ionizing radiation.
• Mammography and Breast Imaging Interpretation: Expert review and reporting of mammograms (including tomosynthesis/3D mammography) and breast ultrasound for cancer screening, diagnosis, and follow-up.

Note: This list provides an overview of common radiology services. Dr. Taillefer interprets a wide range of medical imaging studies and/or performs procedures as indicated by your referring physician. Specific subspecialty services depend on the physician's focus and training.

All medical imaging services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

Dr. Taillefer's practice is primarily based at CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, Département de médecine nucléaire, located in the Saint-Jean Sector North neighborhood of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. The facility is conveniently situated near the Hôpital du Haut-Richelieu and the Commercial Corridor, providing easy access for patients. It is accessible via Transport Urbain / Taxibus du Haut-Richelieu. The healthcare facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are imaging studies interpreted by Dr. Taillefer covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary diagnostic imaging studies interpreted by a Radiologist like Dr. Taillefer are typically covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when prescribed by your referring physician and performed at an accredited medical facility. Some advanced or specialized interventional procedures may also be covered. It's always best to confirm specific coverage details with Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) or the imaging clinic/hospital.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to have an imaging study interpreted by Dr. Taillefer?

Yes, almost all diagnostic imaging tests (like X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasounds) and interventional radiology procedures require a formal request or requisition from your family doctor, specialist, or other authorized healthcare provider. Dr. Taillefer provides expert interpretation of these physician-ordered studies.

What does a Radiologist actually do? Do they take the pictures?

A Radiologist (like Dr. Taillefer) is a medical doctor who has completed extensive specialty training in interpreting all types of medical images (X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasound, nuclear medicine, etc.) to diagnose diseases and injuries. They provide a written report of their findings to your doctor. While skilled technologists operate the imaging equipment to take the pictures, the Radiologist is the expert physician who analyzes these images to provide a diagnosis. Some Radiologists (Interventional Radiologists) also perform image-guided minimally invasive procedures.

What is Interventional Radiology?

Interventional Radiology is a subspecialty of radiology where physicians use medical imaging (like X-ray, CT, ultrasound, MRI) to guide minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis (e.g., biopsies) or treatment of a wide range of conditions in nearly every organ system. These procedures are often alternatives to open surgery. Dr. Taillefer specializes in these image-guided procedures. If not, he interprets diagnostic images that may lead to referral for such procedures.

Why might I need an injection of 'contrast' or 'dye' for my scan?

Contrast material (often called 'dye', though it's usually clear) is a special substance that can be injected intravenously (or sometimes taken orally or rectally) to help certain organs, blood vessels, or tissues stand out more clearly on imaging exams like CT or MRI. It can help Dr. Taillefer see abnormalities that might otherwise be hidden. Not all scans require contrast; it's used when it can provide important additional diagnostic information.

I'm concerned about radiation exposure. Are X-rays and CT scans safe?

Patient safety is our top priority. Radiologists and technologists are trained to use the lowest radiation dose necessary to obtain high-quality diagnostic images (this is known as the ALARA principle - As Low As Reasonably Achievable). While X-rays and CT scans do use ionizing radiation, the amount for most diagnostic exams is carefully controlled and the benefit of an accurate diagnosis generally far outweighs the very small potential risk. If you have specific concerns, please discuss them with your referring doctor or the imaging staff before your exam.

CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, Département de médecine nucléaire
SS-7-920 boul du Séminaire N
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC J3A 1B7

Phone: (450) 359-5000 | Fax: (450) 359-5198

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Taillefer is a licensed physician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Imaging services are typically provided based on referrals from other physicians.

Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=80092