Dr. Catherine Sari Birken – Pediatrician | Toronto, ON

Dr. Catherine Sari Birken is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). She 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. The clinic environment is designed to be welcoming and supportive, ensuring a family-centered approach to care.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto (Canada) and has over 23 years of experience as a Pediatrician, since 2001. Dr. Birken is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her extensive clinical background reflects a deep commitment to the health and well-being of her young patients and their families.

Dr. Birken’s clinical philosophy centers on providing family-centered care, grounded in evidence-based practice and preventive health strategies. She collaborates closely with parents and other healthcare professionals to support the diverse needs of her patients. Fluent in English, she is dedicated to delivering personalized care that respects each child's unique circumstances, ensuring a supportive and nurturing environment for children in Toronto.

Dr. Catherine Birken 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.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - uncomplicated): Bacterial infections affecting the urinary system, common in children.
• Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
• Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).

Adolescent Health Concerns

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

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

• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• Comprehensive Well-Child Visits (Infancy through Adolescence): Regular check-ups to monitor growth, development, nutrition, and overall health, including physical exams and age-appropriate guidance.
• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
• 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.

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. Birken 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.

Dr. Birken practices at the Hospital for Sick Children, located in Toronto's Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood. The hospital is a vital medical hub within the city, serving as a specialized unit for pediatric care. The facility is situated near the Port Lands area, easily accessible via public transit options including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus). The hospital's environment is family-friendly, with wheelchair accessibility and welcoming spaces designed for children and families. Parking is available at or near the hospital, ensuring convenient access for visitors and patients. The hospital's central location makes it an ideal setting for comprehensive pediatric services in Toronto.

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

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

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Birken is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Birken 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. Birken'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 often should my child see a Pediatrician for well-child visits?

Well-child visits are scheduled regularly from birth through adolescence. In the first year, visits are frequent (e.g., shortly after birth, then at 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months). After that, they typically occur at 15, 18, 24 months, and then annually from age 3 onwards, or as per provincial guidelines. Dr. Birken will provide a recommended schedule for your child. These visits are important for tracking growth, development, providing immunizations, and addressing any concerns early.

How does Dr. Birken help manage chronic health conditions in children?

For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. Birken 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 involved can parents be in their child's healthcare with a Pediatrician?

Dr. Birken 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.

Hospital for Sick Children
686 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M5G 1X8

Phone: (416) 813-7654 | Fax: (416) 813-5663

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

Dr. Birken 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. Birken 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/Birken-Catherine-Sari/0139581-71444