Dr. Mary Margaret Bennett – Pediatrician | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Mary Margaret Bennett is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within a hospital department in Vancouver, BC, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Dr. Bennett adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). She 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 warm, welcoming, and child-friendly, ensuring a positive experience for young patients and their families.

Graduating with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia, Dr. Bennett holds specialty certification as a Pediatrician and has achieved key professional certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her extensive training and ongoing education enable her to deliver the highest quality pediatric care, tailored to the unique needs of each child.

Dr. Bennett's clinical philosophy centers around family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health. She is dedicated to collaborating closely with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure her young patients receive comprehensive, continuous, and compassionate care. Fluent in English, she is committed to supporting families in Vancouver with a warm, reassuring approach that emphasizes trust, education, and mutual respect.

Dr. Mary Bennett 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.
• Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.
• Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
• Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.
• Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
• 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.
• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.

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

• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
• 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.
• 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.
• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
• Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.

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. Bennett 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Bennett practices at a dedicated pediatric unit within a hospital in Vancouver's Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near BC Place and the Downtown Financial District, making it easily accessible for families. Public transit options include TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), buses, SeaBus, and West Coast Express—allowing families to reach the clinic via multiple routes. The location is fully wheelchair accessible and designed to be welcoming to children and families, with paid parking options nearby for convenience.

Are pediatric services with Dr. Bennett covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Bennett are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP) or Dr. Bennett's office, especially for subspecialty care. The clinic staff can assist with understanding coverage options and billing procedures.

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

For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Bennett is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Bennett 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP). It's best to check with Dr. Bennett'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 routine care.

What are the current screen time recommendations for children, and how can Dr. Bennett 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. Bennett 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.

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

You should contact Dr. Bennett'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 can I expect during my child's first visit or a well-child visit with a Pediatrician?

During your child's first visit or a routine well-child check-up with Dr. Bennett, she will conduct a thorough physical examination, measure your child's growth (height, weight, head circumference for infants), and discuss developmental milestones. She will also review immunization records, talk about nutrition, sleep, safety, and behavior appropriate for your child's age. This visit provides an opportunity to ask questions and establish a trusting relationship. These appointments are essential for preventive care and early detection of any health concerns.

How often should my child see a Pediatrician for well-child visits?

Well-child visits are scheduled regularly from birth through adolescence. In the first year, visits are more frequent—shortly after birth, then at 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months. After that, visits typically occur at 15, 18, 24 months, and annually from age 3 onwards, or as recommended by provincial guidelines. Dr. Bennett will advise on the appropriate schedule for your child. These visits are vital for monitoring growth, development, immunizations, and addressing health concerns early.

How involved can parents be in their child's healthcare with a Pediatrician?

Dr. Bennett believes in family-centered care, where parents and caregivers are active partners in a child's healthcare team. She encourages open communication, welcomes questions, and involves families in all health decisions. Your insights about your child's behavior, symptoms, and daily routines are invaluable in providing personalized care. Collaboration with parents ensures that your child's health needs are met comprehensively and compassionately.

4500 Oak St, Department of Pediatrics, BC Children's Hospital
Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1

Phone: (604) 875-2345

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

Dr. Bennett is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Dr. Bennett 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/303878/Bennett%2CMary