Dr. Christopher David Novak – Pediatrician | Calgary, AB

Dr. Christopher David Novak is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within a hospital department in Calgary, AB, he is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that each young patient receives safe, effective, and family-centered care. Dr. Novak's approach emphasizes building trusting relationships with families, creating a welcoming environment where children feel comfortable and cared for. His focus encompasses preventive health, routine check-ups, immunizations, and management of common childhood illnesses, promoting healthy growth and development from birth through adolescence.

He graduated with a MD Doctor of Medicine from the University of Alberta (Canada), and has completed extensive post-graduate training in pediatrics. Dr. Novak holds specialty certification as a Pediatrician and maintains all necessary credentials to practice in Alberta. His certifications include ongoing education in child healthcare, ensuring he remains current with the latest evidence-based practices and guidelines.

Guided by a philosophy of family-centered and collaborative care, Dr. Novak believes in partnering with parents and caregivers to support each child's unique health journey. He provides care in English and is dedicated to fostering open communication, respecting family preferences, and working together with other healthcare professionals to optimize outcomes. His commitment is to support the well-being of young patients in Calgary through compassionate, evidence-based pediatric services.

Dr. Christopher Novak provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
• Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

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

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
• Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
• Menstrual Disorders (e.g., irregular periods, dysmenorrhea): Irregular, heavy, or painful periods in adolescent girls.

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

• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• Mental Health Screening & Initial Support: Basic screening for common pediatric mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression) and providing initial support or referrals as needed.
• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatrics (Comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. Novak 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Located within a pediatric clinic in Calgary's NW neighbourhoods of Bowness, Montgomery, and Greenwood, Dr. Novak's practice is situated in a dedicated pediatric unit of a larger hospital facility. The location connects easily north and south via major roads and public transit options, including Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, providing a child-friendly environment. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby to accommodate families visiting the clinic for routine or urgent care needs.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Novak covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Novak are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB. 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or Dr. Novak's office, especially for subspecialty care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Novak, a Pediatrician?

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Novak is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Novak 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). It's best to check with Dr. Novak's clinic directly regarding their new patient and referral policies. you may be able to book an appointment directly, especially if the practice is accepting new patients, or for newborn care.

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

Dr. Novak believes in family-centered care, which means parents and caregivers are essential partners in a child's healthcare team. He 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.

When should I take my child to see Dr. Novak if they are sick?

You should contact Dr. Novak's office if your child has symptoms that concern you, such as a high or persistent fever (especially in infants), difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, few wet diapers), severe pain, vomiting or diarrhea that is persistent or severe, a rash you're unsure about, unusual lethargy or irritability, or if your child just doesn't seem like themselves. The clinic staff can help determine if your child needs to be seen and how soon. For emergencies, always go to the nearest emergency department or call 911.

What are the current screen time recommendations for children, and how can Dr. Novak 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. Novak 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.

28 Oki Dr NW, Alberta Children's Hospital
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8

Phone: (403) 955-2953 | Fax: (403) 955-3055

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

Dr. Novak is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Dr. Novak may accept new patients directly for general pediatric care or via referral, depending on clinic policy. Please contact the clinic for information on new patient registration and any referral requirements for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=ae3adbce-df71-4391-90df-01d5d2c49cec&i=1070