Dr. Essa Hamdan Al Awad – Pediatrician | Calgary, AB

Dr. Essa Hamdan Al Awad 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 Calgary, AB, he is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. He provides advanced medical care for high-risk newborns, focusing on their critical early stages of life and development. His practice adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). The environment in which he cares for his patients is designed to be welcoming and reassuring for both children and their families, ensuring a supportive setting during often challenging times.

Dr. Awad graduated with an MBBS from Syria and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Pediatric Neonatology. He holds the necessary certifications to practice Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine in Alberta, including specialty certification as a Pediatric Neonatologist. His training includes comprehensive clinical experience in neonatal intensive care units, ensuring he is well-equipped to manage complex neonatal conditions and provide expert consultation for pediatric cases requiring specialized knowledge.

With a commitment to family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies, Dr. Awad collaborates closely with parents and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for his young patients. He also speaks Arabic in addition to English, which helps him communicate effectively with a diverse community of families in Calgary. His approach emphasizes compassion, thoroughness, and a dedication to supporting children’s health and development from birth through adolescence.

Dr. Essa Awad provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Newborn & Neonatal Conditions

• Neonatal Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes in newborns due to elevated bilirubin levels.
• Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS): Withdrawal symptoms in newborns due to prenatal exposure to certain substances.
• Congenital Infections (e.g., CMV, Group B Strep): Infections passed from mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Minor Injuries (Cuts, Bruises, Sprains): Common physical injuries that occur during childhood play and activities.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
• Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Long-Term Management of Chronic Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Disorders in Children: Providing ongoing, specialized care for children with chronic conditions requiring subspecialist expertise.
• 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.

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. Awad 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.

Dr. Awad practices within a pediatric clinic or hospital department located in Calgary's NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near the University of Calgary and Foothills Medical Centre, providing easy access for families. Public transit options include Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT), making it accessible for families traveling from various parts of the city. The practice environment is designed to be welcoming and child-friendly, with wheelchair accessibility and accommodations to ensure comfort for children and families. Parking is available at or near the facility, facilitating convenient visits for families during their busy days.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Awad 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 Pediatric Neonatologist like Dr. Awad 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. Awad's office, especially for subspecialty care.

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

For a general Pediatric Neonatologist, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Awad is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Awad 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. Awad'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 should I do if my child gets sick after Dr. Awad's office is closed?

Dr. Awad's office will usually have instructions for after-hours care. This might involve a phone number for an on-call physician or nurse line, directions to a pediatric after-hours clinic, or advice on when to go to an urgent care center or emergency department. It's a good idea to ask about these procedures during a regular visit. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

What can I expect during my child's first visit or a well-child visit with a Pediatrician?

During your child's first visit or a routine well-child check-up with Dr. Awad, He will conduct a thorough physical examination, measure your child's growth (height, weight, head circumference for infants), and discuss developmental milestones. He will also review immunization records, talk about nutrition, sleep, safety, and behavior appropriate for your child's age. This is an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about your child's health or development. These visits are key to preventive care and building a strong relationship with your child's doctor.

1403 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9

Phone: (403) 944-1939

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

Dr. Awad is a licensed Pediatric Neonatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or general pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Awad 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=d84d3bac-5f24-4b9f-9c07-f29596c8644b&i=45