Dr. Gunasekar Thangaraju

Dr. Gunasekar Thangaraju provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
• Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.
• Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
• Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.

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

• Comprehensive Well-Child Visits (Infancy through Adolescence): Regular check-ups to monitor growth, development, nutrition, and overall health, including physical exams and age-appropriate guidance.
• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
• Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
• 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.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.

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. Thangaraju 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. Thangaraju practices within a welcoming pediatric clinic located in the heart of Penticton's Central neighborhood, easily accessible from the South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, and Naramata Bench (Rural South). The clinic is conveniently situated near the Cleland Theatre and Penticton Public Library, making it a local family-friendly destination. Public transit options are plentiful via the South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit), providing easy access for families. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, with metered street parking and nearby parking lots available for visitors. The environment is designed to be warm, inviting, and accommodating to young patients and their loved ones, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.

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

Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Thangaraju 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. Thangaraju's office, especially for subspecialty care.

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

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Thangaraju is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Thangaraju 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. Thangaraju'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.

What can I do if my child is having trouble sleeping?

Sleep is crucial for a child's development. If your child is having trouble sleeping, establishing a consistent bedtime routine is very important. This includes a calming wind-down period, a set bedtime, and ensuring their sleep environment is comfortable, dark, and quiet. Limiting screen time before bed can also help. Dr. Thangaraju can discuss age-appropriate sleep needs, common sleep problems, and strategies to address them. Sometimes, underlying issues like anxiety or medical conditions can affect sleep, which Dr. Thangaraju can help assess.

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. Thangaraju 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.

My child is a picky eater. What advice can a pediatrician offer?

It's very common for toddlers and young children to go through phases of picky eating. Dr. Thangaraju can offer practical advice, such as maintaining a regular meal and snack schedule, offering a variety of healthy foods without pressure, involving your child in food preparation, and modeling healthy eating habits. He can also assess your child's growth and development to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition and rule out any underlying medical concerns. If needed, a referral to a dietitian may be considered.

22-88 Duncan Ave W
Penticton, BC V2A 7J7

Phone: (250) 492-2944 | Fax: (250) 492-2920

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

Dr. Thangaraju is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Dr. Thangaraju 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/367279/Thangaraju%2CGunasekar