Dr. John McDermott – Neurologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. John McDermott is a Neurologist providing care for neurological conditions in both adult and pediatric patients. Practicing at John McDermott Clinic Edmonton in Edmonton, AB, 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 set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective neurological services. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological health challenges.

Dr. McDermott graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Université de Sherbrooke in Canada. He holds specialty certification as a Neurologist, including certifications such as LMCC and FRCPC in Neurology (both Adult and Pediatric). His training and credentials reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest level of expertise in neurological care, enabling him to address complex neurological issues with confidence and precision.

Dedicated to patient-centered care, Dr. McDermott approaches each case with a holistic perspective, emphasizing evidence-based practice and ongoing patient education. He is committed to providing compassionate support to his patients in Edmonton, fostering clear communication and shared decision-making. Fluent in both English and French, he strives to ensure accessibility and understanding for all patients and their families.

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

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
• 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.

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
• Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM): A rare inflammatory demyelinating condition of the central nervous system, typically following an infection or vaccination.
• Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.

Neuromuscular Diseases

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) / Motor Neuron Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): A rare neurological disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks part of its peripheral nervous system.
• Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic, Chemotherapy-induced, Idiopathic): Damage to or disease affecting nerves, which may impair sensation, movement, gland or organ function, or other aspects of health.

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

• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. McDermott 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.

John McDermott Clinic Edmonton is situated in the vibrant Downtown West, Oliver neighbourhood of Edmonton, AB. The clinic is conveniently accessible from the Garneau/University Area and Major North-South Corridor, making it easy for patients to reach. Public transit options, including Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) with LRT and bus routes, provide reliable transportation to the facility. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility for those who prefer to drive, supporting a stress-free visit for every patient.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. McDermott, a Neurologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. McDermott, 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. McDermott's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

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

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

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. McDermott if needed.

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. McDermott can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity. The management of MS involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medication, lifestyle adjustments, and symptomatic therapies.

What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?

For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. McDermott focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. McDermott 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 to effective management.

John McDermott Clinic Edmonton
10155 120 St NW, Allin Clinic
Edmonton, AB T5K 2A2

Phone: (780) 482-7551 | Fax: (780) 488-2056

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. McDermott is a licensed 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. McDermott for 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=dde34cd8-c394-4412-8ed0-2a4a21e69d4b&i=955