Dr. Ruth Hannah McWhannell – Pediatrician | Toronto, ON

Dr. Ruth Hannah McWhannell is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within a vibrant Toronto hospital department in the neighbourhood of St. James Town, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. McWhannell 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 welcoming and friendly to children and families, ensuring a positive experience for all patients.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. Since 2019, she has been practicing as a Pediatrician, accumulating over 5 years of focused experience in child healthcare. Dr. McWhannell is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), demonstrating her expertise and commitment to professional excellence in pediatrics.

Dr. McWhannell’s clinical philosophy emphasizes family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She is dedicated to working collaboratively with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to support the well-being of her young patients in Toronto. She provides care in English and is passionate about fostering a trusting, respectful relationship with each family she serves, ensuring that every child receives personalized and attentive medical care.

Dr. Ruth McWhannell provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:

Common General Pediatric Conditions

• Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
• 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

• Speech & Language Delays: Difficulties in understanding or using spoken language appropriate for a child's age.
• Learning Disabilities (e.g., Dyslexia, Dyscalculia): Challenges in specific academic areas despite normal intelligence.
• Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).

Adolescent Health Concerns

• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
• 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.

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

• 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.
• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• 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.
• Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
• Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.

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. McWhannell 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. McWhannell practices at a welcoming pediatric clinic situated in Toronto's vibrant St. James Town neighbourhood. The location is conveniently near the Princess of Wales Theatre and Royal Alexandra Theatre, making it easy for families attending cultural events to access pediatric care. The clinic is accessible via TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), with nearby stops providing convenient transit options. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, creating a comfortable environment for young patients. Metered street parking and nearby lots are available for those arriving by car, ensuring easy access for families from various parts of the city.

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

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

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

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. McWhannell 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.

My child is a picky eater. What advice can a pediatrician offer?

It's very common for toddlers and young children to go through phases of picky eating. Dr. McWhannell can offer practical advice, such as maintaining a regular meal and snack schedule, offering a variety of healthy foods without pressure, involving your child in food preparation, and modeling healthy eating habits. She can also assess your child's growth and development to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition and rule out any underlying medical concerns. If needed, a referral to a dietitian may be considered.

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

Dr. McWhannell 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.

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

61 Queen St E
Toronto, ON M5C 2T2

Phone: (416) 867-3655

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

Dr. McWhannell 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. McWhannell 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/McWhannell-Ruth-Hannah/0303218-105799