Dr. Kayla McConvey – Neurologist | Barrie, ON

Dr. Kayla McConvey 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 Central Hastings Family Health Team in Barrie, ON, she is an integral part of the local medical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and ethical neurological care. Dr. McConvey provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological health challenges.

Dr. McConvey graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Limerick School of Medicine in Ireland. She has been practicing as a Neurologist since 2022, accumulating over two years of specialized experience in neurological assessment and management. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development in the field of neurology.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, emphasizing a holistic approach to neurological health. Dr. McConvey is dedicated to evidence-based practice, ongoing patient education, and providing compassionate support tailored to each individual's unique needs. She communicates fluently in English and strives to empower her patients through clear explanations and collaborative decision-making, ensuring optimal outcomes for those she serves in Barrie.

Dr. Kayla McConvey 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.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.

Movement Disorders

• Essential Tremor: A nervous system disorder (neurological disorder) that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking, most often in the hands.
• Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorders: Neurological disorders characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.
• Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.
• 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.
• Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.

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

• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• 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.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.

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

Central Hastings Family Health Team is situated in Barrie's vibrant Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood, serving as a key medical facility within Meridian Place. The facility is easily accessible via Barrie Transit, with multiple stops nearby, ensuring convenient public transportation options for patients. The clinic is fully wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive environment for all individuals. Paid parking options are conveniently located in close proximity, offering ease of access for patients arriving by car. As part of the broader hospital network, the practice is equipped to coordinate comprehensive neurological assessments and treatments in a modern, patient-friendly setting.

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

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. McConvey, 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. McConvey's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. McConvey 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 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. McConvey can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.

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

Your first appointment with Dr. McConvey will likely be quite thorough. She 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. McConvey 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 does a Neurologist like Dr. McConvey specialize in?

A 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. She is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. McConvey is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.

Central Hastings Family Health Team
201 Georgian Dr, Box 520 Marmora Medical Centre
Barrie, ON L4M 6M2

Phone: (705) 728-9802

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. McConvey 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. McConvey 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/McConvey-Kayla/0310805-110323