What is a Paediatrician?
A paediatrician is a doctor who specializes in the care of infants, children and adolescents up to about age 19 years. Like other medical specialists, paediatricians train for an additional 4 to 6 years after obtaining their MD degree.
- General paediatricians see patients with a very wide range of problems, such as:
- premature births
- acute and chronic medical illnesses
- developmental disorders
- mental health challenges
- Some paediatricians are subspecialists, who care for patients with very specific problems, for example:
- diabetes
- cancer
- complex heart disease
In BC, a paediatrician will see a child who is referred by a family physician for diagnosis, treatment or continuing follow-up if the child has a complex problem, is seriously ill or requires hospitalization. For information about paediatricians and other medical professionals in your area, see the Directory.
What is the BC Pediatric Society?
The BC Pediatric Society (BCPS) is the professional association of paediatricians and paediatric sub-specialists in BC. The BCPS vision is that all BC infants, children, adolescents and their families will attain optimal physical, mental and social health. The BCPS goals are to:
- Advocate for improved health for infants, children, and youth, and their families (in particular in the areas of immunization, mental health, learning disabilities and obesity), and
- Advocate and provide educational opportunities for paediatricians and health care providers.