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Centre de Santé Isle-Dieu is Matagami's full-service health centre offering a 24/7 emergency department serving residents across the vast James Bay territory in Nord-du-Québec. As one of five installations under the CRSSS de la Baie-James — the sole health authority for a 350,000 km² region — this facility provides essential emergency and primary care for a remote, geographically isolated population. Patients requiring highly specialized care such as cardiac surgery or advanced trauma may be stabilized here before transfer to a larger regional centre.
Services & Specialties
Emergency department (urgence) — open 24/7, 365 days a year, Minor surgery, Designated sexual assault victim services (specialized centre), Assistance to elderly victims of abuse, Assistance to crime victims, Anticoagulation therapy and prescription adjustment, Crutch rental at the emergency department, Prenatal classes, Mammography, Cancer screening services, STBBI integrated screening and prevention (SIDEP), STI and sexual health screening, Contraception and emergency oral contraception, Abortion referral (IVG), Vaccination, Glucose testing, End-of-life care, Pivot nurse for cancer and chronic disease management, Free needle distribution (harm reduction), Wheelchair and mobility aid services, Nutritional counselling, Dental hygiene services, Financial assistance and health card authentication (CLSC), CHSLD long-term care unit for non-autonomous elderly residents.
For non-emergency services such as CLSC appointments, vaccination, or screening, call 819-739-2515 ahead of your visit to confirm availability and scheduling.
Matagami is a remote community — if you are travelling from a distant James Bay territory community, ensure your vehicle is fuelled and prepared for long-distance driving, especially in winter.
If you require highly specialized care (e.g., cardiac surgery, complex trauma), be aware that stabilization may occur here before transfer to a larger regional hospital in Abitibi-Témiscamingue or beyond.
Services at this facility are offered primarily in French. If you require English-language assistance, notify staff upon arrival so they can accommodate you as best as possible.
Bring all your current medications and your Quebec health card (RAMQ card) — this will significantly speed up your registration and triage process at the emergency department.
What to Bring
Quebec health insurance card (RAMQ / carte soleil)
Government-issued photo ID
List of all current medications and dosages
List of known allergies
Health insurance or supplemental coverage information if applicable
Emergency contact information for a family member or friend
Warm clothing or a blanket, especially during northern Quebec winters
Snacks and water for potential wait times
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Centre de Santé Isle-Dieu emergency department open 24 hours a day?
Yes. The emergency department at Centre de Santé Isle-Dieu in Matagami is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year, including holidays.
What health authority operates Centre de Santé Isle-Dieu?
The centre is operated by the Centre régional de santé et de services sociaux (CRSSS) de la Baie-James, which is the sole health and social services establishment for the entire Nord-du-Québec region (Region 10), covering approximately 350,000 km².
Does Centre de Santé Isle-Dieu offer sexual assault services?
Yes. The facility is a designated centre offering specialized services for victims of sexual assault. It also provides support for elderly victims of abuse and assistance to crime victims.
Can I get CLSC services like vaccination or contraception at this facility?
Yes. In addition to emergency care, the centre offers a full range of CLSC services including vaccination, contraception, emergency oral contraception, STI screening, glucose testing, and social support services. Call 819-739-2515 for appointment availability.
What happens if I need specialized care that isn't available in Matagami?
For complex conditions requiring specialized care — such as cardiac surgery or advanced trauma — the emergency team at Centre de Santé Isle-Dieu will stabilize you and arrange a transfer to an appropriate regional hospital. Matagami's geographic position links the James Bay territory to the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region, which has larger facilities.
Are services at Centre de Santé Isle-Dieu offered in English?
Services are primarily offered in French. If you require English-language assistance, inform staff upon arrival and they will do their best to accommodate you.