Dr. Leland Nathan Benson – Pediatrician | Toronto, ON

Dr. Leland Nathan Benson is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within Toronto's vibrant Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood, he is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. His practice adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Benson 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 child-friendly and welcoming, ensuring that young patients and their families feel comfortable and cared for.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Finch University of Health Sciences in the United States and has been practicing as a Pediatrician since 1979, bringing over 45 years of experience to his patients. Dr. Benson is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his extensive training and expertise in pediatric healthcare.

Driven by a philosophy of family-centered care, Dr. Benson is committed to evidence-based practice, preventive health, and fostering collaborative relationships with families and other healthcare providers. He provides care primarily in English and dedicates himself to supporting the health and well-being of young patients in Toronto, ensuring that each child receives personalized and attentive healthcare tailored to their unique needs.

Dr. Leland Benson provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - uncomplicated): Bacterial infections affecting the urinary system, common in children.
• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
• Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Menstrual Disorders (e.g., irregular periods, dysmenorrhea): Irregular, heavy, or painful periods in adolescent girls.
• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
• 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.

This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Leland Benson.

• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• 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.
• Mental Health Screening & Initial Support: Basic screening for common pediatric mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression) and providing initial support or referrals as needed.
• Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.

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. Benson 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. Benson's practice is situated within a pediatric clinic located in Toronto's Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District), a vibrant and accessible area known for its medical facilities and family-friendly environment. The clinic is conveniently accessible via public transit, including the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), making it easy for families to visit. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, providing a comfortable and safe environment. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring ease of access for families visiting the clinic. The setting is designed to be warm and inviting, fostering a positive experience for young patients and their caregivers.

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

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

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

When should I take my child to see Dr. Benson if they are sick?

You should contact Dr. Benson's office if your child has symptoms that concern you, such as a high or persistent fever (especially in infants), difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, few wet diapers), severe pain, vomiting or diarrhea that is persistent or severe, a rash you're unsure about, unusual lethargy or irritability, or if your child just doesn't seem like themselves. The clinic staff can help determine if your child needs to be seen and how soon. For emergencies, always go to the nearest emergency department or call 911.

What are the current screen time recommendations for children, and how can Dr. Benson help?

Current guidelines generally recommend no screen time for children under 18-24 months (except for video-chatting with family), and limiting high-quality programming to about 1 hour per day for children aged 2-5 years, co-viewed with a parent. For older children and teens, it's important to balance screen time with other healthy activities like physical activity, social interaction, and sleep. Dr. Benson can discuss these recommendations, help your family create a media use plan, and address concerns about the impact of screen time on your child's health and development.

555 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 1X8

Phone: (416) 813-7500 | Fax: (416) 813-7547

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

Dr. Benson 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. Benson 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/Benson-Leland-Nathan/0039473-53449