Improved Access to Rheumatology Care for the Pabineau Community

Members of the Pabineau First Nation (Oinpegitjoig) now have access to rheumatology care directly within their community.

Dr. Jean-Philip Deslauriers, from Vitalité Health Network, is expanding to Pabineau the pilot project he successfully launched earlier this year in Ugpi’ganjig (Eel River Bar).

Once a month, Dr. Deslauriers and a nursing team travel to the community to offer walk-in consultations without the need for a medical referral. Patients can receive a full assessment and immediate care directly where they live.

“Providing specialized care within communities is the best way to overcome barriers to access,” explains Dr. Deslauriers. “This approach allows us to diagnose rheumatologic conditions quickly and initiate treatment before the disease progresses.”

Vitalité Health Network plans to open additional rheumatology clinics in the Restigouche and Acadie–Bathurst areas, further strengthening its commitment to accessible specialized care.

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