About
Dr. Eric Thomas Payne is a specialized Pediatric Neurologist, dedicated to diagnosing and treating neurological conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a neurology clinic or hospital department in Calgary, AB, he is an integral part of the local medical community. As a licensed physician under the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), with license number 32317, he adheres to the highest standards of medical practice. Dr. Payne focuses on the unique neurological needs of young patients, from developmental disorders and epilepsy to headaches and neuromuscular conditions, ensuring age-appropriate care. His approach is centered on providing comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to each child's individual needs. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, emphasizing patient education and collaborative decision-making.
He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Calgary (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Pediatric Neurologist. Dr. Payne also maintains certifications including Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada (FRCPC) in Neurology, with qualifications in both adult and pediatric neurology. His extensive training ensures a thorough understanding of neurological science and its application to pediatric care, enabling precise diagnosis and effective treatment strategies.
Dr. Payne's clinical philosophy is rooted in patient-centered care, a holistic approach to neurological health, and evidence-based practice. He is committed to ongoing patient education, empowering families with knowledge about their child's condition and management options. Fluent in both English and French, he strives to communicate clearly and compassionately with diverse patient populations. His dedication to excellence in pediatric neurological care in Calgary reflects his commitment to improving the lives and health outcomes of his young patients.
Dr. Eric Payne addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Pediatric Neurological Conditions
- Cerebral Palsy: A group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood, affecting body movement and muscle coordination.
- Tics & Tourette Syndrome in Children: Neurological conditions characterized by sudden, repetitive, nonrhythmic movements or vocalizations.
- Pediatric Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders: Recurrent seizures in children, requiring specialized diagnosis and management tailored to age and seizure type.
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Eric Payne.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
- Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Payne for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Payne’s practice is located within a well-equipped neurology clinic in Calgary’s NE neighborhood, specifically serving areas such as Tuxedo Park, Highland Park, and Greenview. The facility is conveniently situated near Rockyview General Hospital, providing seamless access for hospital-based consultations and inpatient care. Public transit options including Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT) are readily available, making it accessible for patients from across the city. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients and their families. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring easy access for those arriving by car. The setting is designed to offer a comfortable, welcoming environment for children and their families, with dedicated spaces for consultations, examinations, and support services.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Payne, a Pediatric Neurologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Pediatric Neurologist like Dr. Payne, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Payne's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Payne, a Pediatric Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Pediatric Neurologist like Dr. Payne for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- What does a Pediatric Neurologist like Dr. Payne specialize in?
- A Pediatric Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Pediatric Neurologist, focusing on neurological conditions in children and adolescents. Dr. Payne is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.
- What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Payne?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Payne will likely be quite thorough. He will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Payne may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.
- When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?
- You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Payne if needed.
971 64 Ave NE, Suite # 215
Calgary, AB T2E 7Z4
Phone: (587) 885-3158 | Fax: (587) 441-8380
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Payne is a licensed Pediatric Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or general pediatrician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Payne for pediatric neurology services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0b23e8c0-c90f-4d92-a8e7-d61e7e5be843&i=1142