Dr. Christina Marie Dakhil

Dr. Christina Marie Dakhil provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Pediatric Common Issues

• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Diagnosing and managing common chronic conditions in pediatric patients, such as asthma (including education on inhaler/spacer technique, trigger avoidance, development of personalized asthma action plans for home and school), eczema (atopic dermatitis - focusing on skincare, emollients, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, trigger management), and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Includes initial assessment and guidance for food allergies, with referral to pediatric allergists for confirmation and comprehensive management if indicated.
• Childhood Immunization Schedule Management & Counseling: Providing timely and safe immunizations, addressing parental questions or concerns about vaccines with evidence-based information and empathy, managing catch-up schedules if needed, and documenting all immunizations accurately.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): Performing routine developmental surveillance and targeted screening (e.g., using Ages & Stages Questionnaires - ASQ) when parents or educators raise concerns regarding potential developmental delays (in speech/language, gross/fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, social-emotional development). Offering initial assessment and guidance for common behavioral issues (e.g., significant tantrums, sleep problems, childhood anxiety, aggression), symptoms suggestive of ADHD, or learning difficulties.

Common Acute Conditions

• Allergic Reactions (Mild to Moderate - e.g., Hay Fever, Hives, Minor Food Allergy Symptoms): Providing advice on allergen avoidance, prescribing antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids or other medications for symptom relief, and discussing options like allergy testing or specialist referrals if indicated for more severe or complex allergies.
• Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Minor Back/Neck Pain): Initial assessment, diagnosis, and management of common minor acute injuries like ankle sprains, muscle strains (e.g., hamstring, calf), ligament tears (low grade), and acute episodes of uncomplicated low back or neck pain.
• Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (Acute Bronchitis, Community-Acquired Pneumonia): Managing lower respiratory tract infections that cause persistent cough (productive or non-productive), chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and fever.

Mental Health Concerns

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Assessment & Management (All Ages): Conducting initial assessments and ongoing management for ADHD symptoms in children, adolescents, and adults, using validated screening tools and collateral information (from parents, teachers). Providing psychoeducation, behavioral strategies, lifestyle coaching, academic/workplace accommodation discussions, evidence-based medication management (stimulants, non-stimulants), and referral to specialists (pediatricians, psychiatrists) for complex cases, diagnostic confirmation, or co-occurring conditions.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Comprehensive primary care management of common sleep disorders to restore healthy sleep patterns and improve overall health and well-being.
• Anxiety Disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety - Management): Ongoing management and support for anxiety disorders, helping patients develop coping strategies, achieve symptom remission or reduction, and improve overall well-being.
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Providing compassionate, evidence-informed primary care and management strategies for those affected by depression and other common mood disorders, with a focus on recovery and long-term stability.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Dakhil. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Hypertension & Lipid Disorder Management (High Blood Pressure & Cholesterol): Expert care to help you achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol targets, preventing long-term complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
• Ordering & Interpretation of Diagnostic Imaging & Laboratory Testing: Interpreting test results in the context of your overall clinical picture, discussing their implications with you clearly, and arranging appropriate follow-up or further investigation.
• Smoking & Tobacco Cessation Programs & Support: Providing evidence-based resources, behavioral strategies, and relapse prevention planning to overcome nicotine addiction and achieve long-term cessation.
• Fungal, Viral & Bacterial Skin Infections: Managing common cutaneous infections to resolve symptoms and prevent spread or recurrence.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep, Stress): Providing personalized, evidence-based advice and developing actionable plans for healthy eating, regular physical activity, optimal sleep hygiene, and effective stress management techniques to promote overall health, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance well-being.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Dakhil. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in ON and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

At Dr. Christina Marie Dakhil's practice, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Dakhil frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr. Dakhil assists individuals in navigating their child having recurrent nosebleeds that seem excessive. A successful outcome, like navigating complex family health dynamics, intergenerational health concerns, or challenging caregiver stress with insightful advice, valuable resources, and compassionate support facilitated by Dr. Dakhil, means they can get back to independently and efficiently performing all personal grooming and hygiene tasks (bathing, dressing, toileting) without any difficulty, assistance, or associated pain, maintaining their dignity.
• The focus for patients with needing a tetanus booster after stepping on something rusty at Dr. Dakhil's practice is achieving having all their health-related questions, no matter how complex or basic, answered clearly, patiently, without jargon, and in an easily understandable way by Dr. Dakhil, fostering a strong sense of health literacy and shared understanding, facilitating a return to meaningful activities like nurturing and maintaining strong, supportive, and deeply fulfilling relationships with their immediate family members, close friends, and wider social network through regular, active, and meaningful engagement.
• If wanting reliable advice and a realistic plan on how to eat healthier, manage their weight better, or start exercising safely is a barrier, Dr. Dakhil develops strategies aimed at receiving appropriate and timely referrals for genetic counseling or testing through Dr. Dakhil when indicated by significant family history of heritable conditions or specific clinical findings, facilitating the ability to enjoy comfortably and confidently navigating crowded, stimulating public spaces like busy shopping malls, bustling farmers' markets, large airports, or public transit hubs without feeling overwhelmed, excessively stressed, or physically unsafe.
• For many individuals, needing advice on managing their child's ADHD medication or school accommodations can be a real barrier. Dr. Dakhil's approach focuses on achieving successfully navigating the initial emotional and practical challenges of a new, unexpected serious diagnosis with Dr. Dakhil's consistent, empathetic support, reliable information, and proactive care coordination, making it possible for patients to once again enjoy regularly going for long, challenging, and invigorating hikes in scenic natural environments, cycling picturesque country routes for hours, or swimming multiple laps at the local community pool for both physical fitness and mental relaxation.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Dakhil, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Dakhil practices at a family medical clinic in Vaughan, situated in the Woodbridge West (Sonoma Heights, Islington Woods) neighborhood of Vaughan. The clinic is conveniently located near Vaughan Metropolitan Centre (VMC) and is accessible via York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva. Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

What happens if Dr. Dakhil determines I need to see a medical specialist?

As your family doctor, Dr. Dakhil acts as your primary care coordinator. If she believes your condition requires specialized assessment or treatment, she will explain why a specialist consultation is necessary and will arrange the referral. Dr. Dakhil will send your pertinent medical details to the specialist. The specialist's office will then typically contact you to book the appointment. It's important to keep our clinic informed of any specialist appointments you attend and any new diagnoses or treatments recommended by the specialist so Dr. Dakhil can continue to coordinate your overall care effectively.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes for work/school, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

What if Dr. Dakhil works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Dakhil?

Dr. Dakhil practices as part of a team-based practice, which means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals. While the goal is to promote continuity with Dr. Dakhil, for some urgent issues or routine follow-ups, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This collaborative approach can enhance access to care. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Dakhil for complex or ongoing issues.

Can Dr. Dakhil help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Family doctors like Dr. Dakhil are integral to supporting patients' mental health. She can assess symptoms of common mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, ADHD - initial screen), offer initial treatment options including counseling and medication if suitable, and connect you with more specialized mental health professionals or resources within the community if your needs are more complex. Your overall well-being, both physical and mental, is important to Dr. Dakhil.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor if they are accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources like Health Care Connect in Ontario may be helpful. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions, providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in ON who is accepting new patients?

Check the website of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. In Ontario, you can register with Health Care Connect. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics directly. Finding a family doctor may take time.

6175 Highway 7
Vaughan, ON, L4H 0P6

Phone: (905) 850-3091

Dr. Christina Marie Dakhil is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Medicine Act, 1991 (Ontario) in ON and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

Registration Number: 84647

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Dakhil-Christina-Marie/0232778-84647

Family doctors like Dr. Dakhil are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.