Dr. Hannele Melanie Bedford – Pediatrician | Toronto, ON

Dr. Hannele Melanie Bedford is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic in Toronto, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that every patient receives quality, family-centered care. 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 child-friendly, fostering a supportive space where families feel comfortable and involved in their child's health journey.

Dr. Bedford graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto (Canada) and has been practicing as a Pediatrician since 1999, accumulating over 25 years of experience in child healthcare. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), which underscores her expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development. Her certifications and dedication reflect her focus on evidence-based practices and the latest pediatric care guidelines, ensuring her young patients benefit from current and comprehensive medical care.

Her clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, emphasizing collaboration with parents and caregivers to support each child's unique needs. Dr. Bedford is committed to preventive health strategies, early intervention, and patient education. She believes that open communication and a supportive approach foster trust and better health outcomes. Fluent in both English and French, Dr. Bedford is dedicated to serving Toronto's diverse community, ensuring all families receive respectful, individualized, and culturally sensitive care.

Dr. Hannele Bedford 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.
• Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
• Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
• Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• 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.
• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
• 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. Hannele Bedford.

• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• 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.
• 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.
• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.

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. Bedford 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. Bedford's practice is located in the vibrant neighborhood of Bayview Village in Toronto, ON. The clinic is situated within a pediatric healthcare facility easily accessible by public transit, including TTC services such as subway, streetcar, and bus routes. The location offers convenient parking options, including metered street parking and nearby parking lots. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, with a friendly environment designed to support family-centered care. Families can enjoy easy access to services while benefiting from the proximity to Toronto's Port Lands and Polson Pier, making visits both practical and comfortable for young patients and their caregivers.

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

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

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

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. Bedford 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.

My child is a picky eater. What advice can a pediatrician offer?

It's very common for toddlers and young children to go through phases of picky eating. Dr. Bedford can offer practical advice, such as maintaining a regular meal and snack schedule, offering a variety of healthy foods without pressure, involving your child in food preparation, and modeling healthy eating habits. She can also assess your child's growth and development to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition and rule out any underlying medical concerns. If needed, a referral to a dietitian may be considered.

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. Bedford, 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.

4001 Leslie Street, PO BOX 899
Toronto, ON M2K 1E1

Phone: (416) 756-6345 | Fax: (416) 756-6727

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

Dr. Bedford 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. Bedford 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/Bedford-Hannele-Melanie/0057501-69089