About
Dr. Richard John Macdonald is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic in Oakville, ON, he is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. He adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Macdonald 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. His approach emphasizes family-centered and supportive care, ensuring that each child and family feels valued and understood. The clinic environment is designed to be welcoming and child-friendly, fostering a positive experience for young patients and their families.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto (Canada) and has over 34 years of experience as a Pediatrician, having started his practice in 1990. Dr. Macdonald is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his extensive training and expertise in child healthcare. His professional development is ongoing, ensuring he remains current with the latest pediatric guidelines and best practices.
Dr. Macdonald’s clinical philosophy centers on providing family-centered care grounded in evidence-based practice. He is committed to preventive health strategies, early detection of developmental issues, and collaborating closely with parents and other healthcare specialists to support the well-being of his young patients. He provides care in English and is dedicated to supporting children and families throughout all stages of development, fostering a trusting and supportive relationship with each family he serves.
Dr. Richard Macdonald provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting and diarrhea.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - uncomplicated): Bacterial infections affecting the urinary system, common in children.
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.
- 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
- Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.
- Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
- Menstrual Disorders (e.g., irregular periods, dysmenorrhea): Irregular, heavy, or painful periods in adolescent girls.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Richard Macdonald.
- Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
- Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
- Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
- Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
- Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
- Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
- 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.
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. Macdonald 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. Macdonald practices at a pediatric clinic located within a hospital department in Oakville's West Oak Trails, Glen Abbey West neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near Oakville GO Station and Glen Abbey Golf Club, making it easily accessible by public transit, including Oakville Transit. The practice is designed with families in mind, offering wheelchair accessibility, a welcoming environment, and child-friendly amenities. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby to ensure ease of access for families visiting the clinic. The setting serves as a key pediatric healthcare unit within the hospital, dedicated to providing specialized and comprehensive care to young patients in the Oakville area.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Macdonald 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. Macdonald 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. Macdonald's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Macdonald, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Macdonald is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Macdonald 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. Macdonald'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 does a Pediatrician like Dr. Macdonald specialize in?
- A Pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the health and well-being of infants, children, and adolescents, typically from birth up to age 18. They provide comprehensive care, including preventive health (like well-child visits and immunizations), diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and monitoring of growth and development. He provides comprehensive medical care for infants, children, and adolescents. Dr. Macdonald is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.
- 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. Macdonald 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.
Suite 250, 3075 Hospital Gate
Oakville, ON L6M 1M1
Phone: (905) 338-8303 | Fax: (905) 815-9528
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Macdonald 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. Macdonald 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/Macdonald-Richard-John/0041771-55747