Irma Levasseur was the first French Canadian woman allowed to practice medicine in Canada. She could not complete her studies in Canada and had to move to Minnesota to obtain her license. Still not allowed to practice in Canada, she continued practicing in Minnesota and New York, specializing in pediatric A bill was passed for Ms. Levasseur to be recognized as Dr. Levasseur in Canada. It was, however, still required that she gain experience in Germany and France before she could practice in Canada.

She is the instigator and the co-founder of the Hospital for Sick Kids "Hôpital Ste-Justine', in Montreal, another hospital for sick kids in Quebec City, and a school for disabled children.

Dr. Levasseur has opened the way for many women to be allowed to practice careers usually reserved for men.