Dr. Praveen Kumar

Dr. Praveen Kumar provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Pediatric Heart Conditions

• Tetralogy of Fallot: A complex congenital heart defect involving four distinct anatomical abnormalities.
• Heart Murmurs (Evaluation of significance): Sounds made by turbulent blood flow in the heart, requiring assessment to determine if benign or indicative of a problem.
• Pediatric Arrhythmias (e.g., Supraventricular Tachycardia - SVT): Abnormal heart rhythms that can occur in children.

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• 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

• Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.
• 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.

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

• Fetal Cardiology Consultations: Assessing fetal heart conditions during pregnancy via fetal echocardiography and providing parental counseling.
• Pediatric Pediatric Cardiology Consultation: Focused evaluation and management of complex or specific conditions within a pediatric subspecialty (e.g., Cardiology, Respirology, Endocrinology) upon referral.
• Long-Term Management of Chronic Pediatric Cardiology Disorders in Children: Providing ongoing, specialized care for children with chronic conditions requiring subspecialist expertise.
• Multidisciplinary Team Coordination for Complex Pediatric Cases: Collaborating with other specialists, therapists, and healthcare professionals to provide integrated care for children with multiple or complex health needs.
• Diagnosis & Management of Congenital Heart Defects: Evaluation and care for structural heart problems present at birth, from simple to complex defects.
• Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation for Pediatric Cardiology Conditions: Ordering and interpreting specialized tests relevant to the specific pediatric subspecialty to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Care for Acquired Heart Conditions in Children (e.g., Kawasaki Disease, Myocarditis, Rheumatic Fever): Managing heart conditions that develop after birth due to illness or other factors.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatric Cardiology (Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. Kumar 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Edmonton Pediatrics & Heart Clinic is located in the SW neighborhood of Edmonton, serving communities including Ellerslie, Allard, and Rutherford. The clinic offers convenient access via High Level Bridge and is easily reachable by public transit, including Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) (LRT, Bus). The facility 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 visitors, ensuring ease of access for families coming for appointments.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Kumar covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatric Cardiologist like Dr. Kumar are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB. 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or Dr. Kumar's office, especially for subspecialty care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Kumar, a Pediatric Cardiologist?

For a general Pediatric Cardiologist, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Kumar is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Kumar 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). It's best to check with Dr. Kumar's clinic directly regarding their new patient and referral policies. a referral from your child's family doctor or a general pediatrician is usually required.

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. Kumar 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.

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

Dr. Kumar believes in family-centered care, which means parents and caregivers are essential partners in a child's healthcare team. He 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.

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. Kumar will provide a recommended schedule for your child. These visits are important for tracking growth, development, providing immunizations, and addressing any concerns early.

How should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Kumar?

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. Kumar'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.

Edmonton Pediatrics & Heart Clinic
1516 91 St SW
Edmonton, AB T6X 1M5

Phone: (587) 524-2200 | Fax: (587) 524-2201 | Website: http://kidsheart.ca/

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

Dr. Kumar is a licensed Pediatric Cardiologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or general pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Kumar for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=b76fe113-ae83-4a49-9609-f530e44c7f5f&i=796