Dr. Mary Elizabeth Thain is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic in Peterborough, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. She adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that her practice meets rigorous professional requirements. Dr. Thain 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. Her approach emphasizes early detection, health education, and family-centered support to foster optimal pediatric health outcomes.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in Canada and has been serving as a Pediatrician since 1974, bringing over 50 years of invaluable clinical experience. Dr. Thain is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her specialized training and commitment to pediatric care. Her extensive experience allows her to address a wide range of health issues with expertise and empathy, ensuring each child's unique needs are met with professionalism and personalized attention.
Guided by a philosophy of family-centered, evidence-based practice, Dr. Thain is dedicated to providing high-quality pediatric services in a supportive, caring environment. She collaborates closely with parents and caregivers, valuing their insights and involvement in decision-making. Her commitment to ongoing education and preventive health ensures that young patients in Peterborough receive comprehensive, up-to-date care. She offers her services in English, fostering clear communication and trust with her patients and their families.
Dr. Mary Thain provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.
- Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
- Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- 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.
- Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
Adolescent Health Concerns
- Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
- Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
- 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. Mary Thain.
- Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
- Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
- Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
- Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
- 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. Thain 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. Thain practices at a pediatric clinic located in the South End of Peterborough, in the Otonabee neighborhood. The clinic is situated within a family-friendly environment, easily accessible via public transit, including Peterborough Transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to create a welcoming space for children and families. Ample parking is available with metered street parking and nearby lots for convenience, ensuring that families can access care with ease. The practice is committed to providing a safe, accessible, and comfortable setting for all patients and their caregivers.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Thain 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. Thain 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. Thain's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Thain, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Thain is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Thain 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. Thain'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.
- What immunizations will my child receive from Dr. Thain?
- Dr. Thain follows the recommended provincial immunization schedule for ON. This schedule outlines the vaccines your child should receive at different ages to protect them from serious preventable diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), chickenpox, hepatitis B, influenza, rotavirus, pneumococcal, and meningococcal diseases. She will discuss the specific vaccines due at each visit and answer any questions you may have about them.
- When should I take my child to see Dr. Thain if they are sick?
- You should contact Dr. Thain'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.
- How involved can parents be in their child's healthcare with a Pediatrician?
- Dr. Thain 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. Thain 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.
707 Charlotte St
Peterborough, ON K9H 7G1
Phone: (705) 876-4538 | Fax: (705) 748-3526
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Thain 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. Thain 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/Thain-Mary-Elizabeth/0022954-27745