The paediatric unit provides comprehensive care across multiple specialties, including:

General Paediatrics:
Routine check-ups, vaccinations, and management of common illnesses.

Paediatric Cardiology:
Diagnosis and treatment of congenital and acquired heart conditions.

Paediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery:
Surgical interventions for heart and chest defects.

Paediatric Endocrinology:
Management of hormone-related conditions like diabetes, growth disorders, and thyroid issues.

Paediatric Genetics:
Diagnosis and management of genetic and inherited conditions.

Paediatric Haematology:
Treatment of blood disorders, including anaemia, leukaemia, and clotting disorders.

Paediatric Nephrology:
Care for kidney-related issues, such as chronic kidney disease and nephrotic syndrome.

Paediatric Neurology:
Treatment of neurological conditions such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.

Paediatric Pulmonology:
Care for respiratory conditions like asthma, cystic fibrosis, and chronic lung diseases.

Paediatric Surgery:
Surgical treatment for a wide range of conditions, including congenital anomalies and emergency surgeries.

You can make an appointment by calling the hospital directly – +27 31 581 2400, searching a specific doctor on our website www.lenmed.com or via a referral from your child’s general practitioner (GP) or paediatrician.

Be sure to bring:

• Your child’s medical records, including any previous test results.
• A list of any medications your child is currently taking.
• Your insurance information (if applicable).
• Any questions or concerns you’d like to discuss with the doctor.

For children with complex conditions requiring care from different specialists, the paediatric unit ensures a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. Specialists often work together to create a comprehensive treatment plan, and appointments can be scheduled consecutively to minimize travel and wait times.

During your first visit:

• A paediatric nurse will assess your child’s vital signs and medical history.
• The doctor will perform a thorough examination and may order tests such as blood work or imaging (if needed).
• You’ll discuss your child’s symptoms, diagnosis, and possible treatment options.
• The care team will address any of your questions or concerns and provide a follow-up plan if necessary.

In an emergency, please visit the hospital’s 24 hour emergency department.

In the paediatric cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery departments, treatments include:

•  Medications to manage heart conditions.
• Non-invasive diagnostic tests like echocardiograms and MRIs.
• Surgical repair of congenital heart defects, including valve replacements and correction of complex congenital heart anomalies.
• Post-surgical follow-up and rehabilitation.

The paediatric unit provides long-term management for chronic illnesses:

• Paediatric endocrinologists help children with diabetes by offering insulin therapy, blood glucose monitoring, and dietary counselling.
• Paediatric pulmonologists manage chronic respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis, offering chest physiotherapy, medications, and nutritional support.
• Multidisciplinary care teams coordinate treatment across specialties to provide holistic, ongoing care.

In the paediatric genetics department:

• Genetic testing is available to diagnose inherited conditions.
• Genetic counselling is offered to families to understand the implications of genetic disorders and discuss treatment options.
• Personalized treatment plans are developed for conditions like Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and other metabolic or chromosomal abnormalities.

The paediatric surgery team performs:

• Corrective surgeries for congenital anomalies like cleft lip and palate, hernias, and heart defects.
• Emergency surgeries such as appendectomy or treatment of trauma-related injuries.
• Minimally invasive surgeries (laparoscopic procedures) to reduce recovery time and scarring.
• Tumour removal and treatment of paediatric cancers.

The paediatric neurology department treats conditions like:

• Epilepsy: Medications and, in some cases, surgery or special diets (like the ketogenic diet).
• Cerebral palsy: Therapy, medications, and sometimes surgery to improve mobility and manage symptoms.
• Developmental delays and learning disabilities: Early intervention programs, physical therapy, and cognitive-behavioural therapy.

The paediatric pulmonology team treats conditions like asthma, chronic lung disease, and sleep apnoea. Treatment options include:

• Asthma management: Inhalers, nebulizers, and lifestyle adjustments.
• Cystic fibrosis: Medications, airway clearance techniques, and nutritional support.
• Sleep apnoea: CPAP therapy or surgery for severe cases.

The paediatric unit follows a family-centred care approach, meaning:

• Families are involved in all aspects of decision-making.
• The team provides education on the child’s condition and treatments.
• Psychological support and counselling services are available for families dealing with chronic illness or complex treatments.
• Child life specialists help children cope emotionally and developmentally with hospital stays, treatments, and procedures.

Children who undergo surgery or complex treatments receive:

• Post-operative care: Close monitoring in the hospital to ensure safe recovery.
• Rehabilitation services: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes speech therapy.
• Follow-up appointments: Regular check-ups with specialists to track progress and adjust treatment as needed.

• Be honest: Explain what will happen in simple terms.
• Reassure your child: Let them know that doctors and nurses will take care of them and that you will be there for support.
• Bring comfort items: A favourite toy, blanket, or book can help ease anxiety.
• Child life specialists: The paediatric unit offers services to help children understand and cope with medical procedures.

Pain management in children is taken seriously, and the unit uses:

• Age-appropriate pain relief strategies, including medications, topical treatments, and non-pharmacological techniques like distraction and relaxation.
• Child-friendly approaches to minimize discomfort during procedures.
• The paediatric unit is designed to offer specialized, compassionate care for children, ensuring that both the child and family are supported throughout the treatment process.