Dr. Adele Marie Harrison – Pediatrician | Victoria, BC

Dr. Adele Marie Harrison is a specialized Pediatric Neonatologist, dedicated to the critical care of newborn infants, particularly those born prematurely or with complex medical needs. Practicing at a pediatric clinic or hospital department in Victoria, BC, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. She provides advanced medical care for high-risk newborns, focusing on their critical early stages of life and development. Her practice is guided by the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every child receives safe and compassionate care.

She graduated with an MB ChB from the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom and holds specialty certification as a Pediatric Neonatologist. Her credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest level of professional expertise in her field.

Dr. Harrison's approach to care emphasizes family-centered, evidence-based practice, with a focus on preventive health and collaborative decision-making. She is dedicated to supporting young patients and their families in Victoria, providing care in English. Her clinical philosophy centers on compassion, expertise, and a personalized approach to each child's health journey.

Dr. Adele Harrison provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Newborn & Neonatal Conditions

• Birth Asphyxia & Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE): Brain injury due to oxygen deprivation around the time of birth.
• Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS): Withdrawal symptoms in newborns due to prenatal exposure to certain substances.
• Prematurity & Related Complications: Health issues arising from being born before 37 weeks of gestation, such as respiratory distress syndrome or feeding difficulties.

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
• Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
• Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
• Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.
• Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.

This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Adele Harrison.

• Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation for Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Conditions: Ordering and interpreting specialized tests relevant to the specific pediatric subspecialty to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Pediatric Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Consultation: Focused evaluation and management of complex or specific conditions within a pediatric subspecialty (e.g., Cardiology, Respirology, Endocrinology) upon referral.
• Long-Term Management of Chronic Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Disorders in Children: Providing ongoing, specialized care for children with chronic conditions requiring subspecialist expertise.
• Multidisciplinary Team Coordination for Complex Pediatric Cases: Collaborating with other specialists, therapists, and healthcare professionals to provide integrated care for children with multiple or complex health needs.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine (Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. Harrison or your healthcare team for details relevant to your child's care.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Harrison practices within a welcoming pediatric facility situated in Victoria's Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood. The location is conveniently close to the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre (Arena), making it easy for families to visit. Public transit options are readily available via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring accessible transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to be welcoming to children and families, creating a friendly environment for young patients. Parking is convenient with metered street parking and nearby parking lots available to accommodate visitors.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Harrison covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatric Neonatologist like Dr. Harrison are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Some specialized tests, procedures, or medications prescribed by a subspecialist may require pre-authorization or might have specific coverage criteria. It's always a good idea to confirm coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or Dr. Harrison's office, especially for subspecialty care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Harrison, a Pediatric Neonatologist?

For a general Pediatric Neonatologist, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Harrison is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Harrison is a pediatric subspecialist (e.g., a Pediatric Cardiologist or Developmental Pediatrician), a referral from your child's family doctor or a general pediatrician is usually required for services to be covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). It's best to check with Dr. Harrison's clinic directly regarding their new patient and referral policies. a referral from your child's family doctor or a general pediatrician is usually required.

When and how does a child transition from a Pediatrician to an adult care physician?

The transition from pediatric to adult healthcare typically occurs between the ages of 18 and 21, though it can vary based on individual needs and local practices. Dr. Harrison will work with your adolescent and family to plan for this transition, especially if your child has ongoing or complex health needs. This process involves discussing the importance of continued care, helping to identify a suitable adult care physician (like a family doctor or adult subspecialist), and ensuring a smooth transfer of medical information and care responsibilities.

How involved can parents be in their child's healthcare with a Pediatrician?

Dr. Harrison believes in family-centered care, which means parents and caregivers are essential partners in a child's healthcare team. She encourages open communication, welcomes your questions and concerns, and will involve you in all decisions regarding your child's health and treatment. Your insights into your child's behavior, symptoms, and daily life are invaluable for providing the best possible care.

What are the current screen time recommendations for children, and how can Dr. Harrison help?

Current guidelines generally recommend no screen time for children under 18-24 months (except for video-chatting with family), and limiting high-quality programming to about 1 hour per day for children aged 2-5 years, co-viewed with a parent. For older children and teens, it's important to balance screen time with other healthy activities like physical activity, social interaction, and sleep. Dr. Harrison can discuss these recommendations, help your family create a media use plan, and address concerns about the impact of screen time on your child's health and development.

How should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Harrison?

A fever is often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. If your child has a fever but is otherwise comfortable and playful, a specific number on the thermometer isn't always the most important factor. You can help them feel more comfortable by offering fluids, dressing them in light clothing, and ensuring they get rest. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if appropriate for age and no contraindications) can be used to reduce fever and discomfort; always follow dosing instructions. Contact Dr. Harrison's office if your child is under 3 months with any fever, has a very high fever, a fever lasting more than a few days, or if the fever is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like lethargy, rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration.

1952 Bay St, Island Health
Victoria, BC V8R 1J8

Phone: (877) 370-8699

The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.

Dr. Harrison is a licensed Pediatric Neonatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or general pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Harrison for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/324891/Harrison%2CAdele