Dr. Karen Lynn Elizabeth Chong – Pediatrician | Toronto, ON

Dr. Karen Lynn Elizabeth Chong is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at UHN Toronto General Hospital in Toronto, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). 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 welcoming and child-friendly, ensuring a comforting space for young patients and their families.

Dr. Chong graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Calgary in Canada. With over 26 years of experience as a Pediatrician since 1998, she has developed a deep expertise in child healthcare. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of pediatric medical practice. Her extensive experience allows her to provide expert care tailored to each child's unique needs.

Her clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. Dr. Chong is dedicated to collaborating with parents and other healthcare professionals to support the health and well-being of her young patients. She provides comprehensive, compassionate, and culturally sensitive care in English, ensuring that families in Toronto receive the best possible pediatric services to foster healthy development and lifelong wellness.

Dr. Karen Chong provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
• Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

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

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.
• 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. Karen Chong.

• 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.
• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.

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. Chong 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.

UHN Toronto General Hospital is situated in the heart of Toronto's Bay Street Corridor, also known as the Discovery District. The hospital is close to the renowned World's Biggest Bookstore Site, making it a landmark in the area. Families can access the hospital easily via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), with multiple transit options connecting to the hospital. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, providing a comfortable environment for young patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for visitors, ensuring convenient access for families arriving by car. The hospital's pediatric unit is a key medical facility dedicated to delivering specialized care in a family-friendly setting.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Chong 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. Chong 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. Chong's office, especially for subspecialty care.

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

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Chong is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Chong 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. Chong'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 should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Chong?

A fever is often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. If your child has a fever but is otherwise comfortable and playful, a specific number on the thermometer isn't always the most important factor. You can help them feel more comfortable by offering fluids, dressing them in light clothing, and ensuring they get rest. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if appropriate for age and no contraindications) can be used to reduce fever and discomfort; always follow dosing instructions. Contact Dr. Chong's office if your child is under 3 months with any fever, has a very high fever, a fever lasting more than a few days, or if the fever is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like lethargy, rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration.

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. Chong, She will conduct a thorough physical examination, measure your child's growth (height, weight, head circumference for infants), and discuss developmental milestones. She 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.

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. Chong 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. She 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.

What does a Pediatrician like Dr. Chong specialize in?

A Pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the health and well-being of infants, children, and adolescents, typically from birth up to age 18. They provide comprehensive care, including preventive health (like well-child visits and immunizations), diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and monitoring of growth and development. She provides comprehensive medical care for infants, children, and adolescents. Dr. Chong is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.

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. Chong 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.

UHN Toronto General Hospital
Suite 11PMB 188, 700 University Avenue, Dept of Nephrology
Toronto, ON M5G 1Z5

Phone: (416) 586-4523 | Fax: (416) 586-4723

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

Dr. Chong 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. Chong 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/Chong-Karen-Lynn-Elizabeth/0056166-67754