Dr. Irina Kirtsman – Pediatrician | Cornwall, ON

Dr. Irina Kirtsman is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Division of Nephrology in Cornwall, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. She focuses on preventive care, well-child check-ups, immunizations, and the management of common childhood illnesses, promoting healthy growth and development from infancy through adolescence. The clinic environment is designed to be child-friendly and welcoming, ensuring young patients feel comfortable during their visits.

Dr. Kirtsman graduated with a Medical Degree from Rostovskij Medicinskij Institut in Russia and has over 22 years of experience as a Pediatrician since 2002. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), holding license number 75720. Her extensive experience and commitment to ongoing professional development ensure that she provides up-to-date, evidence-based pediatric care tailored to each child's needs.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes family-centered care, collaboration with parents, and a focus on preventive health strategies. Dr. Kirtsman believes in building strong partnerships with families to support the health and well-being of young patients in Cornwall. She speaks English, French, and Russian, enabling her to serve a diverse community effectively. Her approach is rooted in compassion, evidence-based practice, and a dedication to fostering healthy growth and development in her patients.

Dr. Irina Kirtsman provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
• Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.
• Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
• Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
• Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa - initial assessment & coordination): Serious conditions related to persistent eating behaviors that negatively impact health, emotions and ability to function.
• 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. Irina Kirtsman.

• 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.
• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.

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. Kirtsman 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

The Division of Nephrology in Cornwall is situated in an accessible area near central Cornwall, within a community known for its friendly neighborhood and local points of interest. The practice is easily reachable via local public transit, making it convenient for families to attend appointments. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, with a bright, child-friendly environment. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring easy access for families coming from different parts of Cornwall and surrounding areas near central Cornwall.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Kirtsman covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

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

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

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Kirtsman is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Kirtsman 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). It's best to check with Dr. Kirtsman'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 are the current screen time recommendations for children, and how can Dr. Kirtsman 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. Kirtsman 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.

How often should my child see a Pediatrician for well-child visits?

Well-child visits are scheduled regularly from birth through adolescence. In the first year, visits are frequent (e.g., shortly after birth, then at 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months). After that, they typically occur at 15, 18, 24 months, and then annually from age 3 onwards, or as per provincial guidelines. Dr. Kirtsman will provide a recommended schedule for your child. These visits are important for tracking growth, development, providing immunizations, and addressing any concerns early.

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

You should contact Dr. Kirtsman'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.

If my child is referred to a pediatric subspecialist, how can I prepare for the appointment?

If Dr. Kirtsman or your family doctor refers your child to a subspecialist, it's helpful to prepare for the appointment. Bring any relevant medical records, test results, a list of current medications, and your child's health card. Write down your questions and concerns beforehand. Be prepared to discuss your child's symptoms, medical history, and any family history that might be relevant. Understanding the reason for the referral and what you hope to gain from the visit can make the consultation more effective.

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

Dr. Kirtsman 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.

Division of Nephrology
5th Floor, 840 McConnell Avenue
Cornwall, ON K6H 5S5

Phone: (613) 938-4240

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

Dr. Kirtsman is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Dr. Kirtsman 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kirtsman-Irina/0177918-75720