Dr. Melissa Teresa Rossoni – Pediatrician | Barrie, ON

Dr. Melissa Teresa Rossoni is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at the Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Barrie, 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 all regulatory and quality benchmarks. Dr. Rossoni 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 clinic environment is designed to be child-friendly and welcoming, fostering a positive experience for young patients and their families.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in Canada. With over 8 years of experience as a Pediatrician since 2016, Dr. Rossoni has developed a deep expertise in child healthcare. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her advanced training and commitment to her specialty. Her professional journey is marked by a dedication to continuous learning and clinical excellence in pediatric medicine.

Dr. Rossoni's philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She believes in collaborating closely with parents and caregivers to support the health and well-being of her young patients. Her approach emphasizes education, early intervention, and comprehensive management, ensuring that children in Barrie receive the highest standard of pediatric care. She provides her services in English and is committed to fostering a trusting and supportive relationship with her patients and their families.

Dr. Melissa Rossoni provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
• Allergies (Seasonal, Food, Environmental - initial management): Immune system reactions to various substances, manifesting as rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
• Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.

Adolescent Health Concerns

• 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.
• Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.
• 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. Melissa Rossoni.

• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
• 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.
• Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
• 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.

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. Rossoni 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.

Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario's pediatric unit in Barrie is situated in the vibrant Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood. It serves as a key medical facility within the hospital, providing specialized pediatric services to the community. The location is easily accessible via public transit, with the Allandale Waterfront GO Station nearby, and is well-served by Barrie Transit routes. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, ensuring comfort and ease of access. Parking is available at or near the hospital, making it convenient for families to attend appointments. The hospital's pediatric unit is a trusted resource for comprehensive child healthcare in Barrie, emphasizing quality, safety, and family-centered care.

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

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

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

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

Dr. Rossoni 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.

If my child is referred to a pediatric subspecialist, how can I prepare for the appointment?

If Dr. Rossoni or your family doctor refers your child to a subspecialist, it's helpful to prepare for the appointment. Bring any relevant medical records, test results, a list of current medications, and your child's health card. Write down your questions and concerns beforehand. Be prepared to discuss your child's symptoms, medical history, and any family history that might be relevant. Understanding the reason for the referral and what you hope to gain from the visit can make the consultation more effective.

What immunizations will my child receive from Dr. Rossoni?

Dr. Rossoni 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.

Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontario
211-5 Quarry Ridge Road
Barrie, ON L4M 7G1

Phone: (705) 797-0800 | Fax: (705) 797-0900

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

Dr. Rossoni 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. Rossoni 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/Rossoni-Melissa-Teresa/0281209-98348