Dr. Karen Miriam Mandel – Pediatrician | Whitby, ON

Dr. Karen Miriam Mandel is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Lakeridge Health in Whitby, 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), ensuring that each young patient receives safe, respectful, and family-centered care. Dr. Mandel 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, fostering a supportive atmosphere for both children and their families.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada and has over 29 years of experience as a Pediatrician, having started her practice in 1995. Dr. Mandel is recognized as a College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) RCPSC Specialist, reflecting her extensive training and expertise in pediatric healthcare. Her long-standing commitment to her patients is rooted in continuous learning and dedication to evidence-based practices that prioritize the well-being of children.

Dr. Mandel’s clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, emphasizing collaboration with parents and caregivers to support each child's unique health journey. She is committed to providing preventive health strategies, early intervention, and comprehensive management of childhood health issues. Fluent in English, she strives to create a trusting, supportive relationship with her young patients and their families, ensuring a positive healthcare experience in the Whitby community.

Dr. Karen Mandel 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.
• Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
• Minor Injuries (Cuts, Bruises, Sprains): Common physical injuries that occur during childhood play and activities.

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.
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• 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.
• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.

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

• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• 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.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.

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. Mandel 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.

Dr. Mandel's practice is situated within Lakeridge Health in Whitby's Downtown Whitby neighborhood, conveniently accessible for families in the area. The clinic is located near the Whitby Entertainment Centrum and the Whitby GO Station, making it easy to reach via public transit, including Durham Region Transit (DRT). The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, providing a comfortable environment for young patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring easy access for families visiting for appointments.

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

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

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

Dr. Mandel'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.

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. Mandel 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.

How does Dr. Mandel help manage chronic health conditions in children?

For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. Mandel plays a key role in ongoing management. This includes regular monitoring, adjusting treatment plans as needed, educating the child and family about the condition, coordinating care with other specialists or therapists, and providing support to help the child live a full and active life. The goal is to optimize health, manage symptoms, and support the child's overall well-being and development.

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

You should contact Dr. Mandel'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 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. Mandel, 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.

Lakeridge Health
1615 Dundas Street East
Whitby, ON L1N 2L1

Phone: (905) 725-5437 | Fax: (905) 725-4437

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

Dr. Mandel 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. Mandel 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/Mandel-Karen-Miriam/0049929-63907