About
Dr. Sarah Elizabeth O'Connor is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic in Victoria, 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 every patient receives safe and effective care. Dr. O'Connor's focus is on fostering healthy growth and development, emphasizing prevention, early intervention, and family-centered support. Her practice environment is designed to be warm, welcoming, and child-friendly, making each visit a positive experience for families.
She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Western Ontario in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Pediatrician through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her training includes extensive clinical experience in child healthcare, with ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest pediatric guidelines and practices.
Dr. O'Connor's clinical philosophy is rooted in family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She collaborates closely with parents and other healthcare professionals to support the unique needs of each young patient. Fluent in English, she is committed to building trusting relationships with families in Victoria, guiding them through every stage of their child's growth with warmth, respect, and expertise.
Dr. Sarah O'Connor 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.
- 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.
- Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
Adolescent Health Concerns
- Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
- Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
- Substance Use Issues (Screening & Brief Intervention): Addressing concerns related to alcohol, tobacco, or drug use in adolescents.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Sarah O'Connor.
- Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
- Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
- 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.
- Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
- Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
- 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. O'Connor 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. O'Connor practices at a pediatric clinic located in Victoria's James Bay neighborhood, near Antique Row. The facility is situated in a vibrant area accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), making it easy for families to reach. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and designed to be welcoming to children and families, fostering a friendly environment for young patients. Metered street parking and nearby lots provide convenient options for visitors. The practice's location in the Beacon Hill Park Area offers a family-friendly setting close to local parks and community resources, making visits both easy and enjoyable for families in the region.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. O'Connor 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. O'Connor 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. O'Connor's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. O'Connor, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. O'Connor is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. O'Connor 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. O'Connor'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.
- If my child is referred to a pediatric subspecialist, how can I prepare for the appointment?
- If Dr. O'Connor 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.
- How does Dr. O'Connor help manage chronic health conditions in children?
- For children with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or developmental disorders, Dr. O'Connor 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.
- What does a Pediatrician like Dr. O'Connor 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. O'Connor is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.
1175 Cook St Unit 328, Breakwater Pediatrics
Victoria, BC V8V 4A1
Phone: (778) 247-1175 | Fax: (250) 984-0504
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. O'Connor is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Dr. O'Connor 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/344303/O%27Connor%2CSarah