Paediatrics
What is a paediatrician?
A paediatrician is a medical doctor who specialises in the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents, typically from birth up to 18 years of age.
What do paediatricians do?
Paediatricians provide a broad range of medical services tailored to the health and development of children from birth through adolescence. Core services include:
- Follow-up care for babies with neonatal complications
- Support for feeding issues, colic, and failure to thrive
- Management of bedwetting, constipation, and soiling
- Diagnosis of gastrointestinal conditions like coeliac disease
- Assessment and management of anxiety, depression and mood disorders, and support for behavioural issues such as aggression or defiance: emotional regulation, autism spectrum disorder and ADHD
- Management of developmental delays: speech or motor skills, learning difficulties
- Referrals to paediatric subspecialists and coordination with schools, allied health professionals, and family services
Reasons to see a paediatrician
Your child might be referred to our paediatricians if they have health, developmental, or behavioural concerns that require specialist care, or when more in-depth assessment or treatment is needed. Common reasons include:
Management of medical conditions
- Moderate asthma or allergies
- Frequent infections or chronic illnesses
- Neurological conditions like epilepsy or tic disorders
- Digestive issues such as reflux, coeliac disease, or food sensitivities
- Sleep disorders, including sleep apnoea or trouble falling/staying asleep
- Continence problems like bedwetting or constipation
Assessment of developmental concerns
- Delayed milestones such as not walking or talking by expected ages
- Global developmental delay or intellectual disability
- Autism spectrum disorder
- ADHD or attention difficulties
- Genetic conditions like Fragile X or Down syndromes
Support with growth and nutrition
- Poor growth or weight gain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Rapid changes in head size in infants
- Crossing centile lines in growth charts
Management of behavioural and emotional issues
- Significant changes in behaviour or energy levels
- Learning difficulties or school-related concerns
- Emotional regulation problems or anxiety
Parental concerns
- If something just feels ‘not right’ – parental instinct is often a valid reason to seek a specialist opinion
Do I need a referral to see a paediatrician?
Yes, a valid GP referral or referral from another specialist is needed to access a Medicare rebate. It also facilitates both your referring doctor and paediatrician in working together to provide you with the best care.
Meet Our Paediatrics
Dr Ranjini Ikkandath(Paediatrician in Southwest)
