Dr. Talita Aletta Ferreira van der Watt, Pediatrician

Dr. Talita Aletta Ferreira van der Watt

Pediatrician in Lethbridge, AB

Dr. Talita Aletta Ferreira Watt is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic in Lethbridge, AB, she is an integral part of... Read More

Verified Licensed by CPSA License Number: 026364 Referral Typically Required Contact for Availability English, Afrikaans Female 20+ Years Experience
Primary Practice Location951 19 St S
Lethbridge, AB
T1J 3H5
Primary Phone(403) 320-7825
Professional Details

About

Dr. Talita Aletta Ferreira Watt is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic in Lethbridge, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that every young patient receives safe, evidence-based, and family-centered care. Dr. Watt 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 child-friendly and welcoming, fostering a trusting relationship between families and their healthcare team.

She graduated with an MB ChB from South Africa and has completed extensive postgraduate training in pediatrics. She holds the necessary certifications to practice Pediatrics (Comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents) in Alberta, including specialty certification as a Pediatrician. Her training and certifications ensure she is well-equipped to address the diverse health needs of children and adolescents, from routine check-ups to complex medical conditions.

Dr. Watt's clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health. She is dedicated to collaborating closely with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to support the well-being of her young patients. Fluent in English and Afrikaans, she aims to create a supportive, inclusive environment that respects cultural diversity. Her commitment is to nurture healthy, happy children and to support families in navigating their child’s health journey with confidence and compassion.

Dr. Talita Watt provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
  • 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.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

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

  • Menstrual Disorders (e.g., irregular periods, dysmenorrhea): Irregular, heavy, or painful periods in adolescent girls.
  • 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.
  • 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. Talita Watt.

  • Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
  • Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.

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. Watt 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.

Situated in the vibrant Downtown Lethbridge, within the South Lethbridge East neighborhood, the pediatric clinic is easily accessible to families from various parts of the city. The practice is conveniently located near Henderson Lake Park, providing a pleasant environment for families to enjoy before or after appointments. Families can access the clinic via Lethbridge Transit, with stops nearby for added convenience. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, offering a safe and comfortable space for young patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available, making it easy for families to visit without hassle.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Watt 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 Pediatrician like Dr. Watt 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. Watt's office, especially for subspecialty care.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Watt, a Pediatrician?
For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Watt is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Watt 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. Watt'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 does Dr. Watt help manage chronic health conditions in children?
For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. Watt 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.
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. Watt, 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.
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. Watt 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.
What immunizations will my child receive from Dr. Watt?
Dr. Watt follows the recommended provincial immunization schedule for AB. 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.

951 19 St S
Lethbridge, AB T1J 3H5

Phone: (403) 320-7825

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

Dr. Watt is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Dr. Watt 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0bf44c4c-58da-4e66-a149-031ca7a26d14&i=463

Map