Dr. Sylvie Watelle

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

Pediatric Common Issues

• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Regular monitoring of physical growth (height, weight, head circumference using growth charts), developmental milestones (gross motor, fine motor, language, social-emotional using tools like Rourke Baby Record or Greig Health Record), nutrition/feeding practices (breastfeeding, formula, introduction of solids, healthy eating for older children), and providing age-appropriate anticipatory guidance to parents/caregivers on safety (e.g., car seats, safe sleep, poison prevention, injury prevention), behavior, sleep, dental health, and fostering healthy habits from infancy through school age.
• Common Childhood Infections (Viral & Bacterial - Ear, Throat, Chest, Skin, GI): Expert management of a wide spectrum of acute illnesses affecting infants, toddlers, and school-aged children, including clear guidance for parents on home care, symptom relief, and when to seek urgent re-assessment.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): A first point of contact and trusted resource for parents with concerns about a child's learning, behavior, social interaction, or overall development, offering support, resources, advocacy, and clear pathways to specialized care and school-based supports.
• Childhood Immunization Schedule Management & Counseling: Providing timely and safe immunizations, addressing parental questions or concerns about vaccines with evidence-based information and empathy, managing catch-up schedules if needed, and documenting all immunizations accurately.

Preventative Health Topics

• 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.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Providing personalized, evidence-based advice on adopting and maintaining a balanced diet (e.g., Canada's Food Guide, Mediterranean diet, plant-based options), engaging in regular physical activity (aerobic, strength, flexibility - meeting Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines), achieving optimal sleep hygiene, and implementing effective stress management techniques (mindfulness, relaxation) to promote overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance well-being.
• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Collaboratively discussing healthy weight goals based on BMI, waist circumference, body composition, and overall health status. Providing guidance on evidence-based strategies for weight management including balanced nutrition (calorie awareness, portion control, whole foods), mindful eating, regular physical activity, behavioral strategies (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, addressing emotional eating, sleep optimization), and addressing underlying factors contributing to weight issues. Medical options (pharmacotherapy like GLP-1 agonists, orlistat; bariatric surgery referral) may be discussed if appropriate based on guidelines and individual clinical assessment.

Joint Muscle Pain

• Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Helping patients understand the nature of their mechanical spinal pain, empowering them with self-management techniques, and discouraging reliance on passive treatments or unnecessary imaging for uncomplicated cases, in line with clinical practice guidelines.
• Fibromyalgia & Other Widespread Chronic Pain Syndromes - Primary Care Diagnosis & Multimodal Management: Working collaboratively with individuals experiencing chronic widespread pain to develop personalized self-management strategies, set realistic functional goals, and coordinate care effectively with other healthcare providers such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and rheumatologists (for diagnostic confirmation or complex cases).
• Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) - Diagnosis, Management & Monitoring (Often with Rheumatology Co-Management): Recognizing the characteristic clinical presentation of Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) in older adults (typically age >50 years) – symmetrical morning stiffness and aching in the shoulders, neck, and pelvic girdle – often associated with significantly elevated inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP). Initiating treatment with low-dose corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 12.5-25 mg daily) which usually results in a rapid and dramatic improvement in symptoms, thus supporting the diagnosis. Vigilantly screening for and differentiating from Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA/Temporal Arteritis), which can co-exist with PMR (or occur independently) and requires urgent higher-dose steroid therapy and specialist (rheumatology/ophthalmology) referral to prevent irreversible vision loss.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: Providing advice on activity modification (relative rest, avoiding aggravating activities), ergonomic adjustments (workstation setup, tool use), simple analgesia (NSAIDs - oral/topical, acetaminophen), ice/heat application, and appropriate referral to physiotherapy or occupational therapy for specific exercises (stretching, strengthening), manual therapy, splinting, and further rehabilitation or prevention strategies.

Common Acute Conditions

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs - Colds, Flu, Sinusitis, Pharyngitis): Diagnosis and management of common viral and bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, sinuses, and larynx (e.g., common cold, influenza, acute sinusitis, strep throat, laryngitis), helping to relieve symptoms like cough, congestion, fever, and sore throat.
• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Providing prompt care for sudden or severe headaches, offering effective relief, and establishing a plan for ongoing management if headaches are recurrent or chronic.
• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Back/Neck Pain): First-line care for everyday musculoskeletal injuries, supporting recovery, reducing pain and inflammation, restoring function, and providing referrals for imaging or physiotherapy if conservative measures are insufficient or red flags are present.

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

• Occupational Health Aspects & Work-Related Health Concerns (Initial Assessment): Offering primary care support for work-related health issues, with referrals to occupational medicine specialists if needed.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral): Supporting families by addressing developmental and behavioral questions with empathy, offering practical advice, and facilitating access to necessary assessments and support services.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Childhood Illnesses: Expert management of a wide spectrum of acute illnesses affecting infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and teenagers, including appropriate antibiotic stewardship.
• Management of Other Chronic Conditions (e.g., GERD, IBS, Anemia): Coordinated management of diverse chronic illnesses within a primary care setting.
• Management of Common Adult Acute & Chronic Illnesses: Providing continuous medical care for adult health issues, from sudden illnesses to long-term conditions, ensuring appropriate treatment and follow-up.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr Watelle. 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 GMF des Aurores Boréales, 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 Watelle frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Struggling with their child has a foreign object stuck in their nose or ear (and it seems minor enough for the clinic)? Dr Watelle helps patients target receiving a timely diagnosis of a previously unrecognized condition like obstructive sleep apnea, celiac disease, or hypothyroidism through Dr Watelle's astute clinical screening and appropriate referral for confirmatory testing, leading to effective treatment and significantly improved quality of life, making a return to activities such as feeling consistently rested, fully alert, and cognitively sharp enough to drive safely and defensively for both short daily commutes and much longer, more demanding road trips or family vacations more achievable.
• The path to wellness when facing questions about sexual health, STBBI screening, or experiencing unusual symptoms involves working towards their entire family feeling much better prepared for common health emergencies or accidents after discussing age-appropriate safety plans, basic first aid, and when to seek urgent care with Dr Watelle. Dr Watelle guides patients so they can again enjoy effectively and independently managing their personal budget, complex financial responsibilities, investment decisions, or household bill payments with sustained mental acuity and organizational skill.

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

Dr. Watelle practices at GMF des Aurores Boréales, a family medical practice in a central La Sarre neighborhood of La Sarre. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

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 GMF des Aurores Boréales if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

What happens if Dr Watelle determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr Watelle determines that your condition requires the expertise of a medical specialist (e.g., a cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, psychiatrist), she will discuss the reasons with you and initiate a referral. This usually involves Dr Watelle sending a formal referral letter along with your relevant medical information to the specialist's office. Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly depending on the specialty and the urgency of your condition. The staff at GMF des Aurores Boréales will typically inform you once the referral has been sent, and in most cases, the specialist's office will contact you directly to schedule an appointment. Please follow up with GMF des Aurores Boréales if you haven't heard from the specialist's office within a reasonable timeframe, as advised by Dr Watelle.

How long do appointments with Dr Watelle typically last?

The length of an appointment with Dr Watelle can vary. Standard appointments for a single issue or a routine follow-up are often scheduled for 10-15 minutes. Appointments for more complex issues, a comprehensive periodic health exam (physical), a 'meet and greet' for new patients, counseling, or a minor procedure will usually be longer, perhaps 20-30 minutes or more. When booking your appointment at GMF des Aurores Boréales, it's always best to briefly mention the reason for your visit so the staff can allocate the appropriate amount of time with Dr Watelle. If you have multiple unrelated issues to discuss, you might be advised to book a longer appointment or separate appointments to ensure each concern is addressed adequately.

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

Your first appointment with Dr Watelle is an important opportunity to establish care. She will likely review your detailed medical history, including past illnesses, surgeries, allergies, immunizations, and family health history. she will also want to discuss your current health concerns, any medications you are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, supplements), and your lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol use). A basic physical examination may be performed. This visit is also a chance for you to ask questions about Dr Watelle's practice style and for her to explain clinic policies (e.g., booking appointments, prescription refills, communication). The main goal is to gather comprehensive baseline information to provide you with the best possible ongoing care.

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.

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 QC if the doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. You may find it helpful to check the website of the Collège des médecins du Québec or use online resources to find a doctor. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

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

To find a family doctor in QC who is accepting new patients, you can check the website of the Collège des médecins du Québec, which often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly, or utilize provincial programs if available. Keep in mind that finding a family doctor may take time and effort.

Can Dr Watelle help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Family doctors like Dr Watelle are integral to supporting patients' mental health. She can assess symptoms of common mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, ADHD - initial screen), offer initial treatment options including counseling and medication if suitable, and connect you with more specialized mental health professionals or resources within the community if your needs are more complex. Your overall well-being, both physical and mental, is important to Dr Watelle.

GMF des Aurores Boréales
228 2e Rue E
La Sarre, QC, J9Z 2G9

Phone: (819) 339-5617

Dr. Sylvie Watelle 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: 87481

Verify registration with The Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=87481

Family doctors like Dr Watelle 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.