Dr. Jean-Philip Deslauriers brings rheumatology care to Ugpi'ganjig residents

Thanks to the initiative of Dr. Jean-Philip Deslauriers, rheumatologist at Vitalité Health Network, the community of Ugpi'ganjig (Eel River Bar) now has specialized rheumatology services directly at its health centre.

Dr. Deslauriers, accompanied by nursing staff from the Chaleur Regional Hospital, visits the centre once a month to provide these essential services to the local population.

This one-year pilot project aims to significantly improve access to rheumatology care by allowing patients to consult without an appointment or prior medical referral. From the very first day, at least 14 new patients were able to benefit from an in-depth assessment, in their own community, and obtain care.

"By offering these services right in Ugpi'ganjig, our goal is to remove as many barriers as possible to accessing care," explains Dr. Jean-Philip Deslauriers, who has been practising since 2018 and remains the only rheumatologist in all of northeastern New Brunswick.

"Early identification of people with autoimmune inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or scleroderma means that appropriate treatment can be started promptly, thereby limiting joint damage."

The team at the Ugpi'ganjig Health Centre will also benefit from training in rheumatology, thereby ensuring the continuity and optimum quality of care delivered locally.

Vitalité Health Network President and CEO, Dr. France Desrosiers, commends this remarkable initiative.

"I congratulate Dr. Deslauriers, who is once again demonstrating his unwavering dedication to serving patients in the northern part of the province."

If you are a member of the Ugpi'ganjig community and would like a consultation, please contact the Ugpi'ganjig Health Centre.