About
Dr. Jenna Katherine Dowhaniuk is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Cambridge Memorial Hospital in Hamilton, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that her patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based care. Dr. Dowhaniuk 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. Her practice environment is designed to be welcoming and child-friendly, making every visit a positive experience for young patients and their families.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from McMaster University in Canada and has over 9 years of experience as a Pediatrician since 2015. Dr. Dowhaniuk is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her extensive training and dedication reflect her commitment to providing the highest standard of pediatric care, continually updating her practice with the latest guidelines and clinical evidence.
Dr. Dowhaniuk’s clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She values collaboration with parents and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive support for her young patients. Her approach emphasizes education, compassion, and respect for each child's unique needs, helping families navigate health concerns with confidence. She provides care in English and is passionate about fostering trusting relationships with her patients and their families in Hamilton.
Dr. Jenna Dowhaniuk provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
- Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
- Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.
- Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Adolescent Health Concerns
- Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
- 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.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Jenna Dowhaniuk.
- Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
- Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
- Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
- Mental Health Screening & Initial Support: Basic screening for common pediatric mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression) and providing initial support or referrals as needed.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
- 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. Dowhaniuk 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Cambridge Memorial Hospital, located in Hamilton's Corktown and Stinson neighbourhoods, serves as a key medical facility within the community. The hospital is situated near the scenic Dundas Valley Conservation Area, offering a peaceful environment for families. Accessible via Hamilton Street Railway (HSR), the hospital is conveniently reachable by public transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, providing a safe and friendly setting for pediatric care. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring easy access for families visiting the hospital for their child's healthcare needs.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Dowhaniuk covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Dowhaniuk are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON. 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or Dr. Dowhaniuk's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Dowhaniuk, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Dowhaniuk is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Dowhaniuk 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). It's best to check with Dr. Dowhaniuk'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.
- 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. Dowhaniuk, 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.
- What can I do if my child is having trouble sleeping?
- Sleep is crucial for a child's development. If your child is having trouble sleeping, establishing a consistent bedtime routine is very important. This includes a calming wind-down period, a set bedtime, and ensuring their sleep environment is comfortable, dark, and quiet. Limiting screen time before bed can also help. Dr. Dowhaniuk can discuss age-appropriate sleep needs, common sleep problems, and strategies to address them. Sometimes, underlying issues like anxiety or medical conditions can affect sleep, which Dr. Dowhaniuk can help assess.
- 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. Dowhaniuk 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.
- How does Dr. Dowhaniuk help manage chronic health conditions in children?
- For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. Dowhaniuk 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.
- How should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Dowhaniuk?
- 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. Dowhaniuk'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.
Cambridge Memorial Hospital
1200 Main Street West, Department of Emergency Medicine
Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5
Phone: (905) 521-2100 | Fax: (905) 521-2655
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Dowhaniuk is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. Dr. Dowhaniuk 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Dowhaniuk-Jenna-Katherine/0272765-95090