Dr. Sina Rusta-Sallehy – Family Doctor | Chisasibi, QC

Dr. Sina Rusta-Sallehy is a Médecin de famille. Practicing at Chisasibi Regional Hospital in Chisasibi, QC, he is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. He is registered with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. His focus is providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. He serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Sina Rusta-Sallehy completed his Family Medicine (2020). He brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. He has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. He is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of his practice philosophy include a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care; a strong belief in patient-centered care, ensuring that treatment plans are tailored to individual needs, values, and circumstances. He offers consultations in French.

Dr. Sina Rusta-Sallehy provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Chronic Conditions

• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus & Prediabetes: Managing all aspects of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes with personalized treatment plans. This includes regular blood sugar monitoring (self-monitoring, A1c, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) discussion), prescription and adjustment of medications (oral hypoglycemics, GLP-1 agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, insulin), comprehensive diet and exercise counseling, and proactive screening and management of diabetes-related complications (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, foot problems, cardiovascular disease).
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, B12/Folate Deficiency - Chronic): Primary care approach to identifying and managing deficiencies or chronic conditions that lead to persistent anemia.
• Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's, Nodules): Diagnosis, treatment (e.g., levothyroxine for hypothyroidism, antithyroid drugs or referral for hyperthyroidism), and long-term monitoring of common thyroid conditions, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, to ensure hormonal balance, manage symptoms effectively, and screen for complications like thyroid nodules or goiter. Includes initial investigation of thyroid abnormalities (e.g., ultrasound for nodules) and coordination with endocrinology for complex cases.

Preventative Health Topics

• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Supporting individuals in achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight through non-stigmatizing, patient-centered approaches that focus on sustainable lifestyle habits, improved metabolic health, and overall well-being rather than solely on rapid weight loss or restrictive dieting.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Guidance on making sustainable lifestyle modifications for improved energy levels, healthy weight management, better mood regulation, reduced risk of chronic illness (heart disease, diabetes, cancer), and enhanced longevity and quality of life.
• Occupational Health Screening & Advice (Basic Pre-placement, Return-to-Work): Performing basic pre-employment medicals or fitness-for-work assessments as required by some employers (typically non-WCB/WSIB related, fees may apply). Providing advice on general workplace health and safety, injury prevention, and initial assessment of health concerns potentially related to occupational exposures or ergonomics, with appropriate referrals if specialized occupational medicine input is needed.

Dermatological Skin Conditions

• Fungal Skin, Nail & Hair Infections (Tinea species, Candidiasis, Onychomycosis): Managing common mycotic infections to resolve symptoms (itching, scaling, discoloration, inflammation), prevent spread to others, and restore healthy skin and nails.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Contact Dermatitis & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Helping patients control flare-ups of itchy, red, inflamed, and dry skin, maintain healthy skin barrier function, and reduce the impact of these chronic conditions on daily life.
• Bacterial Skin Infections (Impetigo, Folliculitis, Cellulitis - uncomplicated): Prompt primary care for bacterial skin infections to ensure appropriate treatment and avoid potential complications. Severe or rapidly progressing cellulitis may require hospital admission for IV antibiotics.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Supporting new parents in caring for their infant, addressing common concerns (colic, reflux, sleep patterns), and promoting bonding and healthy attachment.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): Providing initial guidance and evidence-based parenting strategies, and coordinating timely referrals to appropriate pediatric specialists (e.g., developmental pediatricians, child psychologists/psychiatrists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, audiologists) if further evaluation, diagnosis, or specialized intervention is indicated.
• Adolescent Health Care & Counseling (Physical, Mental, Sexual Health, Lifestyle, Substance Use): Providing confidential, respectful, and age-appropriate comprehensive primary care for teenagers (typically ages 12-18+). Addressing a wide range of issues including pubertal development, acne, body image concerns, sports injuries, mental health (screening for anxiety, depression, stress, eating disorders), sexual health education (contraception, STI prevention/screening, healthy relationships), substance use (screening, brief intervention, counseling), and promoting healthy lifestyle choices (nutrition, physical activity, sleep, responsible digital media use).

Joint Muscle Pain

• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Often co-managed with or referred to rheumatology, especially for atypical presentations, diagnostic uncertainty, difficulty tapering corticosteroids, frequent relapses, or suspected GCA. Primary care plays a key role in ongoing monitoring, patient education, and supportive care for PMR.
• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing effective treatment for acutely painful crystal-induced arthritis, focusing on rapid symptom relief during flares, and implementing robust long-term preventative measures for chronic gout to improve joint health and overall well-being.
• Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Primary care coordination for back and neck pain, including referral to physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, or specialist pain services when appropriate for persistent or disabling symptoms.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: A first point of contact for work-related or activity-induced repetitive strain injuries, guiding effective conservative management, facilitating return to function, and providing documentation for workplace accommodations if necessary. Referral to specialists (e.g., sports medicine, orthopedics, physiatry) if symptoms are persistent, severe, or require further investigation/intervention.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr Rusta-Sallehy. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Cardiovascular & Metabolic Risk Assessment & Management: Evaluating risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, including blood pressure measurement, cholesterol (lipid panel) screening, blood glucose testing, and assessing lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, smoking, family history). Includes initiation of preventative medications if indicated.
• Management of Common Chronic Pediatric Conditions (e.g., Asthma, Eczema, Allergies): Diagnosing and managing common chronic conditions in pediatric patients, such as asthma (including action plans and inhaler technique), eczema (atopic dermatitis), allergic rhinitis (hay fever), and food allergies (initial assessment and referral if needed), focusing on symptom control, trigger avoidance, and improving quality of life.
• Patient Education on Specific Health Conditions & Self-Management: Educational resources and discussions to help you navigate your health journey confidently and make informed decisions.
• Eating Disorder Screening & Referral Coordination: Screening for signs and symptoms of eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder) during routine visits or when concerns arise. Providing initial support and psychoeducation, and facilitating timely referrals to specialized eating disorder programs, dietitians, and mental health professionals.
• Comprehensive Periodic Health Exams (Check-ups): Regularly scheduled check-ups to monitor overall health, update immunizations, perform age-appropriate screenings, and provide personalized lifestyle counseling.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Rusta-Sallehy. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Médecin de familles in QC and the ethical and professional standards set by The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

At Chisasibi Regional Hospital, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr Rusta-Sallehy frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr Rusta-Sallehy assists individuals in navigating their child complaining of stomach aches frequently, possibly related to stress or diet. A successful outcome, like feeling confident, secure, and proactive in their health because their preventative health screening needs (e.g., for cervical, breast, colorectal, prostate, and lung cancers, as well as screening for AAA, STBBIs, or domestic violence when appropriate) are being diligently and appropriately addressed according to current, evidence-based Canadian guidelines by Dr Rusta-Sallehy, means they can get back to feeling notably resilient and physically capable enough to bounce back relatively quickly and completely from minor common illnesses, temporary setbacks, or periods of increased stress without prolonged disruption to their normal life.
• If a suspicious mole or skin lesion that has changed in size, shape, or color, or started to itch or bleed is a barrier, Dr Rusta-Sallehy develops strategies aimed at having their diverse family structure, unique cultural needs, and individual communication preferences consistently understood, acknowledged, and respectfully incorporated into all aspects of their care by Dr Rusta-Sallehy and the entire clinic team, facilitating the ability to enjoy regularly and enthusiastically participating in various group fitness classes such as engaging yoga sessions, lively Zumba workouts, intense spin classes, or calming Pilates routines, all at their own pace, comfort level, and for their specific health benefits.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr Rusta-Sallehy, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr Rusta-Sallehy's practice is located at Chisasibi Regional Hospital, situated in a family medical practice in central Chisasibi neighborhood of Chisasibi. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

Is seeing a family doctor (Médecin de famille) covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, driver's medicals) may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with Chisasibi Regional Hospital if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

What happens if Dr Rusta-Sallehy determines I need to see a medical specialist?

Seeing a medical specialist in Canada usually requires a referral from your family doctor, like Dr Rusta-Sallehy. After assessing your condition, if Dr Rusta-Sallehy believes specialist care is necessary for diagnosis or management, he will discuss this with you and make the appropriate referral. Our office will handle sending the required information to the specialist. You will then typically be contacted by the specialist's office to arrange your appointment. Remember that specialist wait times can sometimes be long, so Dr Rusta-Sallehy will continue to manage your care and provide support in the interim.

How can I find a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC who is accepting new patients?

Finding a family doctor in Quebec who is accepting new patients can be challenging. You can try checking the website of the Collège des médecins du Québec, which may have a "Find a Doctor" tool or list. You might also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, or contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly. Provincial programs may also exist to assist in finding a family doctor.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr Rusta-Sallehy?

For most prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy first, at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often fax a refill request directly to Dr Rusta-Sallehy's office. Please allow at least 2-3 business days for these requests to be processed. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics, controlled substances, or medications requiring close monitoring), or if it has been a while since your last review with Dr Rusta-Sallehy, an appointment will be required to assess your condition and ensure the medication is still appropriate and at the correct dose. It is always best to request refills proactively.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Médecin de famille) in QC?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in Quebec if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources may be helpful in this process. A referral *is* usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

What exactly is a family doctor (Médecin de famille) and what is their role?

A family doctor (Médecin de famille) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating a vast array of illnesses, managing complex long-term health conditions, offering health education and counseling on lifestyle choices, and acting as your advocate and guide within the broader healthcare system.

What should I expect during my first 'meet and greet' or new patient intake appointment with Dr Rusta-Sallehy?

Your first appointment with Dr Rusta-Sallehy will involve a review of your medical history, current health concerns, medications, and lifestyle habits. A basic physical examination may be performed. This is also a chance to ask questions about his practice style and clinic policies. The goal is to gather comprehensive information to provide you with the best possible care.

Chisasibi Regional Hospital
21 Rue Maamuu Rd, CP 250
Chisasibi, QC, J0M 1E0

Phone: (819) 855-2844

Dr. Sina Rusta-Sallehy is regulated by the Code des professions & Loi médicale (Québec) in QC and is a registered member in good standing with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ).

Registration Number: 20507

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=20507

Family doctors like Dr Rusta-Sallehy are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.