Dr. Angela Ruth How, a Pediatric Rheumatologist, provides expert care for infants, children, and adolescents with conditions related to Pediatric Rheumatology. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within a hospital department in Burnaby, BC, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that young patients receive safe and effective care. Dr. How's role centers on diagnosing and managing a variety of pediatric rheumatic and autoimmune conditions, offering specialized expertise tailored to the unique needs of her young patients and their families. The clinic environment is designed to be welcoming and child-friendly, creating a comforting space for children and their families during their healthcare journey.
Dr. How graduated with an MD from the University of Calgary in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Pediatric Rheumatologist. She has earned key certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, which affirm her specialized training and commitment to excellence in pediatric subspecialty care. Her extensive education and ongoing professional development enable her to stay current with the latest advances in pediatric rheumatology and child healthcare, ensuring her patients benefit from the most effective and evidence-based treatments available.
With a philosophy rooted in family-centered care, Dr. How is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based services to her young patients in Burnaby. She believes in collaborating closely with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to develop personalized care plans that prioritize prevention, early intervention, and holistic management. She communicates fluently in English, fostering clear and open dialogue with families to support their understanding and involvement in their child's health and well-being.
Dr. Angela How provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Pediatric Rheumatic Conditions
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in Children: An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks its own tissues, affecting various organs.
- Periodic Fever Syndromes / Autoinflammatory Diseases: Conditions characterized by recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation without an infectious cause.
- Vasculitis (e.g., Henoch-Schönlein Purpura, Kawasaki Disease - rheumatic aspects): Inflammation of blood vessels, which can have rheumatic manifestations.
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
- Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.
- Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
- Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
- Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Angela How.
- Pediatric Pediatric Rheumatology Consultation: Focused evaluation and management of complex or specific conditions within a pediatric subspecialty (e.g., Cardiology, Respirology, Endocrinology) upon referral.
- Management of Pediatric Vasculitis (e.g., Kawasaki Disease, Henoch-Schönlein Purpura, Polyarteritis Nodosa): Treating inflammatory conditions of the blood vessels in children.
- 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.
- Treatment of Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) & Other Connective Tissue Diseases: Managing autoimmune conditions affecting multiple organ systems in children, such as scleroderma or mixed connective tissue disease.
- Autoinflammatory Disease Management (e.g., Periodic Fever Syndromes): Diagnosis and treatment of conditions characterized by recurrent fevers and systemic inflammation.
- Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation for Pediatric Rheumatology Conditions: Ordering and interpreting specialized tests relevant to the specific pediatric subspecialty to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Long-Term Management of Chronic Pediatric Rheumatology Disorders in Children: Providing ongoing, specialized care for children with chronic conditions requiring subspecialist expertise.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatric Rheumatology (Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. How 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. How practices within a child-friendly pediatric clinic located in the Central Burnaby, BCIT Area neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Central Park and the Metropolis at Metrotown shopping centre, making it easy for families to access. Public transit options are plentiful, with TransLink services including SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines, as well as numerous bus routes stopping nearby. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to create a welcoming environment for children and families. Paid parking options are conveniently located for those driving to appointments, ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience for all visitors.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. How covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatric Rheumatologist like Dr. How 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. How's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. How, a Pediatric Rheumatologist?
- For a general Pediatric Rheumatologist, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. How is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. How 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. How'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.
- What is the role of a Pediatric Rheumatology like Dr. How?
- A Pediatric Rheumatologist is a pediatrician who has completed additional specialized training in Rheumatology. Dr. How focuses on diagnosing and managing specific complex medical conditions in infants, children, and adolescents related to her area of expertise. This often involves working closely with general pediatricians, family doctors, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.
- How involved can parents be in their child's healthcare with a Pediatrician?
- Dr. How 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.
104-3965 Kingsway Ave
Burnaby, BC V5H 1Y8
Phone: (604) 436-3323 | Fax: (604) 433-1803
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. How is a licensed Pediatric Rheumatologist 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. How 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/303521/How%2CAngela