Liam AndersonIt’s already hard enough being a new parent; you’re sleep-deprived and still figuring out how to hold your kid without dropping them. The last thing you need is for your baby to get sick—but unfortunately, it’s inevitable.
When my friend’s child got sick a few months ago, they dealt with a whirlwind of misdiagnoses and less-than-stellar advice. It made them question whether the good doctor had even graduated from a medical school or just a weekend seminar.
Wanting to ensure nobody else experiences that, I had some help from the rest of the Waterview Vancouver team in interviewing healthcare providers and parents who have gone to them for help.
After much research, here’s what you need to know about the best pediatricians in Vancouver before you book an appointment.
How much does it cost to see a pediatrician in Vancouver?
It costs at least 200 CAD to see a pediatrician in Vancouver for a general consultation. If you have a medical services plan, you will not be charged for a pediatrician visit.
This price is just an estimate and will vary depending on your insurance.
1. Dr. Seemi Roopani
Address: 926 W King Edward Ave
Contact details: +1 (604) 600-7282
Operating hours: Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5 PM
Dr. Seemi Roopani earned her degree from the UBC Department of Pediatrics back in 2011. She also guides new pediatricians in their curriculum.
Almost every parent we interviewed agreed that Dr. Seemi Roopani made them feel at ease about their child’s health.
When we spoke with her, it became clear why many described her as incredibly friendly and approachable.
Her warmth and enthusiasm for her work truly stand out. This reveals that she genuinely cares about her patients.
Moreover, she has a knack for making kids feel comfortable, which is a golden asset for pediatricians.
In addition to her compassionate demeanor, other parents have noted how she breaks down medical jargon. It makes it significantly easier for families to grasp what’s going on.
However, there’s no website for booking appointments, so you’ll have to pick up the phone to schedule a visit.
Gave friendly, practical and easy to understand advice
“Fabulous pediatrician. She took plenty of time to talk to us about all of our first-time-parents’ concerns about our six month old, and gave friendly, practical and easy to understand advice (and it worked!).Can’t recommend Dr. Roopani enough. Office staff also lovely.”
–Shona Sinclair, Google Reviews
She is so kind and patient
“We are so thankful for Dr. Roopani. She is so kind and patient. We never felt rushed. Her assistant is very efficient and kind. Thank you!”
–Maria Escola, Google Reviews
2. Dr. Grace Yu
Address: 2608 Granville St Suite 555
Contact details: +1 (604) 730-5622
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Dr. Grace Yu is fluent in English, Cantonese, and French. Being multilingual allows her not only to bridge communication gaps but also to connect with families on a deeper level.
Speaking with her felt like a breath of fresh air.
She focuses on a range of issues, particularly those related to the brain and nervous system. This includes headaches, seizures, and developmental delays.
Many people expressed gratitude for her thorough approach.
For instance, several parents shared that Dr. Yu was a lifesaver when their child was experiencing chronic headaches. They appreciated how she explained everything in detail. She ensured they fully understood the diagnosis and treatment plan.
This kind of personalized care really makes a difference, especially for parents navigating complex issues like neurological disorders.
Others chimed in, saying Dr. Yu’s support during their child’s developmental delays was invaluable. Many people felt heard and reassured, which is something every parent craves when it comes to their child’s health.
However, she does require a referral from your healthcare provider. So, have your provider fax the referral to her office at 604-875-6717.
She saved our son’s life
“Best pediatrician! She is caring and intelligent. On a personal level she saved our son’s life. Forever grateful.”
–Sam Algra, Google Reviews
She was there and continues to be there to support
“Best pediatrician ever. She was with our son since the beginning- he had severe health concerns just after birth and she was there and continues to be there to support- not just my son, but my family. We love Dr. Yu!! I hope she’s getting the rest and support she needs so she can continue to support all the children and families she sees. Blessings ♡”
–Maria Santanya, Google Reviews
3. Dr. Odion Kalaci Inc.
Address: 202 16th St, West Vancouver
Contact details: +1 (604) 912-7337
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 4 PM
Dr. Odion Kalaci is a name that keeps popping up in the world of pediatric care. He’s multilingual; he knows French, Albanian, and some Spanish. It’s definitely a plus for families who speak those languages.
He’s worked in the NICU at BC Women’s Hospital. This means he’s got serious experience with both term and preterm babies, including multiples.
Several parents have mentioned how he helped address their child’s unique needs right from the start. They felt reassured knowing he was on top of their child’s health, especially if they were dealing with allergies—his specialty.
During our conversation with Dr. Kalaci, it was evident he’s passionate about staying current with the latest research.
He offers a range of allergy testing in his clinic, including skin tests and oral challenges.
Many people recalled how Dr. Kalaci guided them through the process of oral immunotherapy for their child’s food allergies. This makes it a lot less daunting.
That said, we did hear some grumbles about the front office staff. A few parents mentioned that the receptionist can come off as a bit rude, which is never fun when you’re trying to make appointments or ask questions.
Amazing person and very caring doctor!
“We have known dr. Kalaci since the day our daughter was born. He has been helpful and so caring about our little girl, from checking up on her while she was in nicu and making sure she gets the right care and treatments. A year after we still visit Dr. Kalaci for our regular checkups and we couldn’t be more happier.
Amazing person and very caring doctor! Highly recommend!”
–Iryna Amo, Google Reviews
Dr Kalaci is the kind of doctor every mother wants for her child
“Dr Kalaci is the kind of doctor every mother wants for her child: caring, concerned about the well-being of not only the child but the parents and spares no effort to find out what is wrong with the infant. Thank you for taking such good care of my daughter and for really listening and exploring all the alternatives before closing a diagnosis.”
–Ana Carolina Botelho, Google Reviews
4. Dr. Sharon Yong, MD
Address: 305 – 1338 W Broadway
Contact details: +1 (604) 336-5599
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Dr. Sharon Yong works with kids aged 0 to 17. This makes her a go-to for anything related to infant, child, and adolescent health.
What really stood out to us was her special interest in newborn care and childhood neurologic illnesses.
This focus is particularly important, as many parents recounted how Dr. Young’s expertise in childhood neurological issues made a significant difference when their children were experiencing developmental delays.
She reassures and provides a clear plan moving forward, which gives parents peace of mind.
During our conversation with Dr. Yong, it was evident that she’s not only knowledgeable but also incredibly approachable.
Her warmth and dedication shine through. She even serves as a clinical instructor at UBC, mentoring the next generation of pediatricians.
However, it’s worth noting one downside: vaccines aren’t provided at her office.
We always feel safe at her office
“Dr. Yong is THE best! So lucky to have her as my LO’s pediatrician. She has seen my LO since birth and she has been nothing but amazing! Her experience, sound diagnosis, sense of urgency, timely action, empathy and patience are only some of her qualities that makes us truly trust her. Furthermore, she always takes the time to answer all of our questions and goes above and beyond on every appointment. Her MOA, Tammy, is so efficient and friendly. Dr. Yong’s office is modern and squeaky clean. Her office decor is gorgeous, inviting and LO’s oriented without compromising on style. We really enjoy our visits. Even during challenging covid times, we always feel safe at her office.”
–Gina Chirinos, Google Reviews
She always takes the time to answer all of our questions
“Dr. Yong is a fantastic pediatrician. She always takes the time to answer all of our questions, going above and beyond every time we visit. Her receptionist Tammy is also wonderful. Highly recommend the practice to anyone with a young one!”
–Hafeez Merani, Google Reviews
5. Dr. Michelle Clark – Oakridge Pediatrics
Address: 650 W 41st Ave
Contact details: +1 (604) 266-1874
Operating hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Dr. Michelle Clark at Oakridge Pediatrics has a special knack for addressing common concerns. This includes asthma, eczema, and even child development issues.
Many parents have praised Dr. Clark for her patience and kindness.
During their visits, they appreciated how she took the time to explain everything in a way that was easy to understand. This significantly helped ease their nerves.
In addition to her caring demeanor, parents also highlighted her excellent follow-up skills. Dr. Clark doesn’t simply send them on their way after the appointment; she takes the time to check in and see how things are progressing.
However, you will need to send a referral from your general doctor to her office at [email protected] before you can schedule your appointment.
Very professional,super patient and calm
“Dr.Michelle Clarke is very professional,super patient and calm. On our first day to meet her, we were late bec we had a hard time finding the clinic (we’re from Burnaby) but still she was able to wait for us and did her assessments to my son. The male doctor at the ER in BC Children’s was right about her. She also makes follow up calls whenever I have queries or concerns. I don’t mind travelling 45 mins. It’s all worth it anyway. 😃 👍🏻”
–Myrel R, Google Reviews
She made sure that my baby will be fine
“I have consulted with Dr clark today and I am really satisfied after the consultation. She is very calm, listen to each issue patiently. It’s been over a month I was worried for my baby. I am happy that GP referred me to her. She made sure that my baby will be fine soon 🙂”
–Zaineb Hafeez, Google Reviews
