Description
About Dr. Lauren Ashleigh Kitney
Dr. Lauren Ashleigh Kitney is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within Victoria, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC). 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 family-friendly, welcoming, and supportive, ensuring that young patients and their families feel comfortable and cared for.
With a strong foundation in medical education, Dr. Kitney graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Alberta in Canada. She holds specialty certification as a Pediatrician, including certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her credentials reflect a commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development in pediatric healthcare.
Dr. Kitney’s clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She collaborates closely with parents and other healthcare professionals to support the health and well-being of her young patients. Fluent in English, she is dedicated to providing personalized, respectful, and supportive care to children and their families throughout Victoria and the surrounding communities.
Common Conditions Dr. Lauren Kitney Addresses
Dr. Lauren Kitney provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - uncomplicated): Bacterial infections affecting the urinary system, common in children.
- Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting and diarrhea.
- Minor Injuries (Cuts, Bruises, Sprains): Common physical injuries that occur during childhood play and activities.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- 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.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
Adolescent Health Concerns
- Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.
- Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
- 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. Lauren Kitney.
Pediatrician Services Offered by Dr. Lauren Ashleigh Kitney
- 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.
- Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
- Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
- 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.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
- 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.
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. Kitney 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.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Kitney's practice is located within a pediatric clinic in Victoria's Burnside Gorge, Hillside-Quadra neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently situated near the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre (Arena), making it accessible for families attending events or visiting the area. The location is well-served by the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), allowing easy access via public transportation. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, providing a friendly environment for young patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, ensuring convenient access for families with busy schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Kitney 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. Kitney 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. Kitney's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Kitney, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Kitney is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Kitney 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. Kitney'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 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. Kitney, 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.
- What should I do if my child gets sick after Dr. Kitney's office is closed?
- Dr. Kitney'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 does a Pediatrician like Dr. Kitney 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. Kitney is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.
- 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. Kitney 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.
Contact & Licensing Information
340-1641 Hillside Ave
Victoria, BC V8T 5G1
Phone: (250) 881-7347 | Fax: (250) 881-7349
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Kitney is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Dr. Kitney 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/359768/Kitney%2CLauren