Dr. Cara Alexandra McQuaid – Pediatrician | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Cara Alexandra McQuaid is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at McMaster University in Ottawa, 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 every child receives safe, effective, and personalized care. Dr. McQuaid 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 clinic environment is designed to be inviting and friendly, making young patients and their families feel comfortable and cared for.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has been practicing as a Pediatrician since 2023. With over 1 year of experience in pediatric care, she is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her training and ongoing professional development enable her to provide up-to-date, evidence-based pediatric services tailored to each child's unique needs.

Dr. McQuaid's clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, emphasizing collaboration with parents and caregivers to support the health and well-being of young patients. She is committed to preventive health strategies, early intervention, and working closely with other healthcare professionals when necessary. Fluent in English, she dedicates herself to offering accessible, empathetic, and comprehensive pediatric care to families across Ottawa.

Dr. Cara McQuaid provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
• Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.
• Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
• 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.
• Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.

This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Cara McQuaid.

• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• 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.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.

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. McQuaid 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.

McMaster University is situated in Ottawa's Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, and Billings Bridge neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently located near Little Italy (Corso Italia) and Dow's Lake Pavilion, offering a pleasant environment for families to visit. Public transit options, including OC Transpo (O-Train LRT and Bus), provide easy access to the facility. The practice is wheelchair accessible and aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for children and families. Parking is available at or near the location, ensuring convenience for patients arriving by car. The setting fosters a family-friendly experience, making healthcare visits comfortable and accessible for all.

Are pediatric services with Dr. McQuaid 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. McQuaid 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. McQuaid's office, especially for subspecialty care.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. McQuaid, a Pediatrician?

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

How involved can parents be in their child's healthcare with a Pediatrician?

Dr. McQuaid believes in family-centered care, which means parents and caregivers are essential partners in a child's healthcare team. She encourages open communication, welcomes your questions and concerns, and will involve you in all decisions regarding your child's health and treatment. Your insights into your child's behavior, symptoms, and daily life are invaluable for providing the best possible care.

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. McQuaid 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. McQuaid can help assess.

What should I do if my child gets sick after Dr. McQuaid's office is closed?

Dr. McQuaid's office will usually have instructions for after-hours care. This might involve a phone number for an on-call physician or nurse line, directions to a pediatric after-hours clinic, or advice on when to go to an urgent care center or emergency department. It's a good idea to ask about these procedures during a regular visit. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

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

You should contact Dr. McQuaid'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.

McMaster University
401 Smyth Rd, Postgraduate Medical Education
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1

Phone: (416) 985-6680

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

Dr. McQuaid 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. McQuaid 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/McQuaid-Cara-Alexandra/0325058-115298