About
Dr. Ruth Claire Wingerin is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at BC Children's Hospital in Vancouver, BC, 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 British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that her practice meets rigorous professional guidelines. Her focus is on fostering healthy growth and development, offering preventive care, well-child check-ups, immunizations, and managing common childhood illnesses. Her approach is warm and reassuring, creating a welcoming environment where families feel supported and valued.
Dr. Wingerin graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. She holds specialty certification as a Pediatrician from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating her commitment to excellence in child healthcare. Her training and certifications enable her to provide expert medical care tailored to the unique needs of her young patients.
Her clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practices, and a proactive approach to health promotion. Dr. Wingerin values collaboration with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic and personalized care. She is dedicated to supporting children through all stages of their development, providing care in English, and ensuring that every child and family feels comfortable and confident in their healthcare journey.
Dr. Ruth Wingerin 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.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis - general management): A chronic skin condition causing dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
- Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.
- 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.
- Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
- Adolescent Depression & Anxiety: Mental health challenges that can emerge or intensify during teenage years.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Ruth Wingerin.
- 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.
- Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
- Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
- Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
- Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental 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.
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. Wingerin 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.
BC Children's Hospital, located in Vancouver's Fairview neighbourhood, serves as a leading child healthcare facility in the region. The hospital is situated within Vancouver's vibrant Commercial Corridor and Downtown Entertainment District, making it easily accessible for families. Public transit options are plentiful, including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The hospital facility is wheelchair accessible and designed to be welcoming for children and families. Metered street parking and nearby lots are available, providing convenient options for visitors. The hospital's dedicated pediatric units and clinics are equipped to offer specialized and compassionate care to young patients in a friendly environment.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Wingerin 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. Wingerin 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. Wingerin's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Wingerin, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Wingerin is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Wingerin 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. Wingerin'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 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. Wingerin, 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 is an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about your child's health or development. These visits are key to preventive care and building a strong relationship with your child's doctor.
- If my child is referred to a pediatric subspecialist, how can I prepare for the appointment?
- If Dr. Wingerin 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 does a Pediatrician like Dr. Wingerin 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. She provides comprehensive medical care for infants, children, and adolescents. Dr. Wingerin is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.
- What immunizations will my child receive from Dr. Wingerin?
- Dr. Wingerin follows the recommended provincial immunization schedule for BC. 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.
- How does Dr. Wingerin help manage chronic health conditions in children?
- For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. Wingerin plays a key role in ongoing management. This includes regular monitoring, adjusting treatment plans as needed, educating the child and family about the condition, coordinating care with other specialists or therapists, and providing support to help the child live a full and active life. The goal is to optimize health, manage symptoms, and support the child's overall well-being and development.
BC Children's Hospital
207-650 41 Ave W, South Tower
Vancouver, BC V5Z 2M9
Phone: (604) 266-1874 | Fax: (604) 266-1583
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Wingerin is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Dr. Wingerin 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/313025/Wingerin%2CRuth