About
Dr. Simon Kouz is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in Saint-Charles-Borromée, QC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and ethical guidelines set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ). Dr. Kouz provides comprehensive care in Cardiology, focusing on delivering personalized and compassionate treatment to his patients. He is committed to helping adults maintain their heart health and improve their quality of life through evidence-based medicine and patient education.
Dr. Kouz graduated with a Medical Degree in 1986 and holds a specialty certification in Cardiology issued on July 23, 1986. He completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology, including internships and residencies, which have equipped him with advanced clinical skills and knowledge necessary for the effective management of complex cardiovascular conditions. His certifications reflect his dedication to maintaining high standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.
Reassuring and patient-focused, Dr. Kouz believes in building trusting relationships with his patients. He strives to provide clear explanations of diagnoses and treatment options, ensuring patients are well-informed and comfortable with their care. Fluent in French, he is able to communicate effectively with his diverse patient population, offering compassionate support throughout their health journey. His ultimate goal is to improve cardiovascular health outcomes in Saint-Charles-Borromée and surrounding communities by delivering attentive and personalized medical care.
Dr. Kouz provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:
Heart Rhythm Disorders (Arrhythmias)
- Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate) & Heart Block: Diagnosing causes of slow heart rates and conduction system problems, including assessing the need for pacemakers.
- Evaluation of Palpitations: Investigating sensations of skipped beats, fluttering, racing, or pounding heartbeats to determine the underlying cause and significance.
- Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Evaluation and management of various types of rapid heart rhythms originating above the ventricles.
Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy
- Cardiomyopathy (Various Types): Diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the heart muscle itself, such as dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.
- Pulmonary Hypertension Evaluation: Assessing for high blood pressure in the lung arteries, often related to underlying heart or lung conditions.
- Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease
- Management after Coronary Stenting (PCI): Monitoring and medical management following procedures to open blocked heart arteries with stents, including antiplatelet therapy guidance.
- Stable Angina Pectoris: Managing chest discomfort or pressure caused by narrowed heart arteries, typically occurring during exertion or stress.
- Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.
Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Kouz is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.
- Echocardiogram (Transthoracic - TTE) Interpretation: Analyzing standard ultrasound images of the heart to evaluate heart muscle function, valve structure and function, and chamber sizes.
- Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Ambulatory ECG (Holter & Event Monitor) Interpretation: Analyzing recordings from portable heart monitors worn for 24 hours up to several weeks to diagnose intermittent arrhythmias or correlate symptoms with heart rhythm.
- Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) Interpretation: Analyzing 24-hour blood pressure readings to diagnose hypertension, assess treatment effectiveness, and identify patterns like 'white coat' hypertension.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) Interpretation: Expert analysis of ECG recordings to detect arrhythmias, evidence of heart attacks, chamber enlargement, and other electrical abnormalities.
Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Kouz. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).
Dr. Kouz primarily practices at the Centre Hospitalier de Lanaudière, Cardiologie unit, situated near the central area of Saint-Charles-Borromée. The facility is conveniently located close to local points of interest, making it accessible for patients residing in and around Saint-Charles-Borromée. The location is easily reachable via public transit options available in the region. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Kouz covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)?
- Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Kouz are typically covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) or the testing facility.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Kouz?
- Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kouz. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.
- How should I prepare for a stress test?
- Specific instructions will be provided when your test is booked. Generally, you may be asked to avoid caffeine for several hours beforehand, wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing, and potentially hold certain heart medications (like beta-blockers) on the day of the test. Always confirm instructions with the testing facility or Dr. Kouz's office.
- What is Holter monitoring?
- A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records your heart's electrical activity (ECG) continuously, typically for 24 to 48 hours, while you go about your normal daily activities. It's used to detect heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) that may not occur during a standard brief ECG in the office.
CH de Lanaudière, Cardiologie
1000 Boul Sainte-Anne
Saint-Charles-Borromée, QC J6E 6J2
Phone: (450) 759-8222 | Fax: (450) 759-1541
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kouz is a licensed physician regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=86138