Dr. Tommy Dan Gerschman

Dr. Tommy Gerschman provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Pediatric Rheumatic Conditions

• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): The most common type of arthritis in children, causing joint inflammation and stiffness.
• Periodic Fever Syndromes / Autoinflammatory Diseases: Conditions characterized by recurrent episodes of fever and inflammation without an infectious cause.
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in Children: An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks its own tissues, affecting various organs.

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
• Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
• Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
• 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. Tommy Gerschman.

• Long-Term Management of Chronic Pediatric Rheumatology Disorders in Children: Providing ongoing, specialized care for children with chronic conditions requiring subspecialist expertise.
• Management of Pediatric Vasculitis (e.g., Kawasaki Disease, Henoch-Schönlein Purpura, Polyarteritis Nodosa): Treating inflammatory conditions of the blood vessels in children.
• Pediatric Pediatric Rheumatology Consultation: Focused evaluation and management of complex or specific conditions within a pediatric subspecialty (e.g., Cardiology, Respirology, Endocrinology) upon referral.
• Diagnostic Testing & Interpretation for Pediatric Rheumatology Conditions: Ordering and interpreting specialized tests relevant to the specific pediatric subspecialty to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• 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.
• Treatment of Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) & Other Connective Tissue Diseases: Managing autoimmune conditions affecting multiple organ systems in children, such as scleroderma or mixed connective tissue disease.
• Autoinflammatory Disease Management (e.g., Periodic Fever Syndromes): Diagnosis and treatment of conditions characterized by recurrent fevers and systemic inflammation.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatric Rheumatology (Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents). Care plans are highly individualized to meet each child's specific health needs. Please discuss with Dr. Gerschman 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.

Dr. Gerschman practices within a pediatric clinic or hospital department situated in areas near central North Vancouver. The facility is conveniently accessible via local public transit and is located close to prominent local points of interest, making it easy for families to visit. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families. Parking is available at or near the facility, ensuring a smooth and stress-free visit for all patients and their families.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Gerschman covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatric Rheumatologist like Dr. Gerschman 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. Gerschman's office, especially for subspecialty care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Gerschman, a Pediatric Rheumatologist?

For a general Pediatric Rheumatologist, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Gerschman is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Gerschman 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. Gerschman'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.

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

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. Gerschman'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 does a Pediatric Rheumatologist like Dr. Gerschman specialize in?

A Pediatric Rheumatologist 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. He is a Pediatric Rheumatologist, specializing in Pediatric Rheumatology for young patients. Dr. Gerschman is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.

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

You should contact Dr. Gerschman'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 immunizations will my child receive from Dr. Gerschman?

Dr. Gerschman follows the recommended provincial immunization schedule for BC. 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. He will discuss the specific vaccines due at each visit and answer any questions you may have about them.

What is the role of a Pediatric Rheumatology like Dr. Gerschman?

A Pediatric Rheumatologist is a pediatrician who has completed additional specialized training in Pediatric Rheumatology. Dr. Gerschman focuses on diagnosing and managing specific complex medical conditions in infants, children, and adolescents related to Pediatric Rheumatology. This often involves working closely with general pediatricians, family doctors, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care.

110-126 15TH St E, QubeCore Sport & Rehab
North Vancouver, BC V7L 2P9

Phone: (604) 210-4736 | Fax: (604) 210-6825

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

Dr. Gerschman is a licensed Pediatric Rheumatologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or general pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Gerschman 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/330083/Gerschman%2CTommy