Dr. John Maher – Neurologist | Barrie, ON

Dr. John Maher is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at Credit Valley Hospital in Barrie, ON, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His practice adheres to the high standards established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and ethical neurological care.

Dr. Maher graduated with a Medical Degree from the National University of Ireland (Ireland). With over 33 years of experience as a Neurologist since 1991, he has developed extensive expertise in managing complex neurological cases. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and excellence in neurological medicine.

His clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, emphasizing a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. Maher is dedicated to evidence-based practice, ongoing patient education, and providing supportive, compassionate care. He offers his services in English and is committed to helping patients and their families navigate neurological conditions with clarity and confidence.

Dr. John Maher addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.

Movement Disorders

• Huntington's Disease & Other Choreas: Inherited or acquired conditions causing involuntary, irregular, and unpredictable muscle movements.
• Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.
• Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorders: Neurological disorders characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.

Headache Disorders

• Chronic Daily Headache: Headaches occurring 15 or more days per month for at least three months.
• Tension-Type Headache: The most common type of primary headache, often described as a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.
• Migraine (with or without Aura): A type of headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. John Maher.

• 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.
• 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.
• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• 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.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Maher 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Credit Valley Hospital, situated in the vibrant Downtown Barrie neighborhood near East Bayfield, serves as a key medical facility providing specialized neurological services. The hospital campus is conveniently accessible via Barrie Transit, with multiple routes servicing the area. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, making the visit comfortable and hassle-free. The hospital’s Neurology unit is equipped to support patients requiring comprehensive neurological assessment and ongoing care, serving as a vital part of Barrie’s healthcare infrastructure.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Maher, a Neurologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Maher, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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. Maher's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Maher, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Maher 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.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Maher will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Maher?

Your first appointment with Dr. Maher 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. Maher 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.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. Maher can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.

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. Maher if needed.

Credit Valley Hospital
48 Alliance Boulevard
Barrie, ON L4M 5K3

Phone: (705) 721-1060 | Fax: (705) 721-2406

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Maher is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Maher 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/Maher-John/0049177-63155