Accessing the services

Spirometry (15-30 minutes)

During this test, you must place the mouthpiece in your mouth, take a deep breath, then blow all of the air out of your lungs as fast and forcefully as possible. Depending on your results, you may have to repeat this test many times. Spirometry is also used to screen for COPD and for the purposes of follow-up.

Basic assessment (60 minutes)

The basic assessment involves four different tests:

• Slow spirometry;
• Forced spirometry;
• A test during which you need to breathe normally for five minutes;
• A test during which you take the biggest breath possible and hold it for 10 seconds.

Depending on your results, the respiratory therapist may administer Ventolin in order to measure your response to the medication. A blood test via arterial puncture may also be required.

Bronchial provocation (60 minutes)

Bronchial provocation assesses if the bronchi are abnormally sensitive. During this test, you will inhale a known concentration of medication for a few minutes. This will be followed by a spirometry test. Depending on your results, you may have to repeat the test several times, inhaling a different concentration of medication.

It is important to note that you must stop the use of certain inhalers and certain other medications and stop eating certain foods (coffee and chocolate) before the test. If you do not have the test-related directives, please contact your testing facility. Otherwise, it is important to mention it to the respiratory therapist at the time of the test.

The bronchial provocation tests and the basic assessment will be analyzed by a pneumologist. The diagnosis will then be communicated to the doctor who requested the test.

Centre d’enseignement MPOC (COPD educational centre)

Group classes

COPD group classes are for anyone with COPD, with or without a medical referral. 

The classes are available online (90 minutes) or in person (2 hours). Topics addressed include physiopathology, the use of inhalers, the action plan, breathing techniques and bronchial hygiene, energy conservation, anxiety and stress, relaxation, COVID and COPD.

450-432-2777, ext. 22753 or 22592 

Individual classes

People suffering from COPD can receive educational services through the Centre d’enseignement MPOC. Knowledge about COPD and its treatment allows the person to take charge of their illness by improving their ability to actively participate in their treatment and quality of life.

The role of the educators is to help patients better understand their disease and manage their symptoms. These services are for patients with COPD and their loved ones. They are offered in modules in group or individual meetings.

The « mieux vivre avec une MPOC (living well with COPD)» educational program is used in every centre and is recognized by the Réseau Québécois en éducation de la santé respiratoire (RQESR).

The Laurentians has four COPD information centres. If you have been diagnosed with COPD, please contact the one closest to you.

Hôpital de Mont-Laurier
Telephone: 819-623-1228, ext. 6449
Fax: 819-623-1311

Centre multiservices de santé et de services sociaux de Rivière-Rouge
Telephone: 819-275-2118, ext. 53481
Fax: 819-275-1304

Centre multiservices de santé et de services sociaux de Sainte-Agathe (formerly Hôpital Laurentien)
Individual services only
Telephone: 819-324-4000, ext. 34716

Hôpital régional de Saint-Jérôme
Telephone: 450-432-2777, ext. 22579 (option 3)

Hôpital de Saint-Eustache
Telephone: 450-473-6811, ext. 44479

Pulmonary rehabilitation program

The benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation programs have been clearly documented and are based on national and international evidence.  It is the most effective treatment for improving shortness of breath, tolerance to effort and quality of life in patients with COPD. Furthermore, a 2008 study led by McGill University and Université Laval confirmed the effectiveness of the at-home rehabilitation program and that this alternative is just as safe and effective as the one in hospital.  

Two pulmonary rehabilitation programs are available in hospitals. For more information about these programs, please contact the facility closest to you. Note that a prior medical assessment is required before starting the program :

Centre multiservices de santé et de services sociaux de Sainte-Agathe (formerly Hôpital Laurentien)
819-324-4000, ext. 34716

Hôpital régional de Saint-Jérôme
450-432-2777, ext. 22579 (option 4) 

Patients who are losing their autonomy and are being followed by home support services can also participate in a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Please discuss this with the respiratory therapist following you.