Dr. Margaret Emily Bertoldi – Pediatrician | St Thomas, ON

Dr. Margaret Emily Bertoldi is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Mackenzie Health Hospital in St Thomas, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that her practice maintains excellence in pediatric care. Dr. Bertoldi 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. Her clinic environment is designed to be friendly and welcoming, fostering a positive experience for young patients and their families.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine in Canada. With over 24 years of experience as a Pediatrician since 2000, Dr. Bertoldi has built a robust foundation in child healthcare. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development. Her extensive training and experience enable her to provide high-quality medical services tailored to each child's unique needs.

Dr. Bertoldi's clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She is dedicated to supporting children and their families through all stages of growth, working collaboratively with parents and other healthcare providers. Her approach emphasizes education, early intervention, and holistic care, ensuring that her young patients in St Thomas receive attentive and comprehensive medical attention. She provides care in English and is passionate about fostering trusting relationships with her patients and their families.

Dr. Margaret Bertoldi 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.
• Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting and diarrhea.
• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

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

Adolescent Health Concerns

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

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

• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
• Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
• 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.
• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.

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. Bertoldi 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.

Mackenzie Health Hospital, located in the areas near central St Thomas, ON, serves as a vital medical facility within the community. The hospital's pediatric unit is situated within a modern, accessible building that caters to the needs of children and their families. The hospital is conveniently accessible via local public transit, making it easy for families to reach. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby to ensure ease of access for visitors. The hospital's pediatric services are designed to provide comprehensive care close to home, with a focus on family-friendly environments and community health.

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

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

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Bertoldi is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Bertoldi 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. Bertoldi'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 does a Pediatrician like Dr. Bertoldi 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. Bertoldi is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.

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

If Dr. Bertoldi 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 should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Bertoldi?

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. Bertoldi'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 immunizations will my child receive from Dr. Bertoldi?

Dr. Bertoldi follows the recommended provincial immunization schedule for ON. This schedule outlines the vaccines your child should receive at different ages to protect them from serious preventable diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), chickenpox, hepatitis B, influenza, rotavirus, pneumococcal, and meningococcal diseases. She will discuss the specific vaccines due at each visit and answer any questions you may have about them.

What are the current screen time recommendations for children, and how can Dr. Bertoldi 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. Bertoldi 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.

Mackenzie Health Hospital
426 Talbot Street
St Thomas, ON N5P 1B9

Phone: (519) 637-0009 | Fax: (519) 637-5799

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

Dr. Bertoldi 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. Bertoldi 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/Bertoldi-Margaret-Emily/0173456-75381