Dr. Susan Bennett – Pediatrician | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Susan Bennett is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Ottawa Hospital in Ottawa, 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 each patient receives safe, effective, and family-centered care. Dr. Bennett’s practice focuses on fostering healthy growth and development, emphasizing preventive care, well-child check-ups, immunizations, and the management of common childhood illnesses. Her approach is rooted in supporting families and building trusting relationships to promote lifelong health and well-being.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Liverpool School of Medicine in the United Kingdom. With over 36 years of experience as a Pediatrician since 1988, Dr. Bennett brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to her practice. She is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her expertise and commitment to continuous professional development. Her extensive experience enables her to provide expert care across a broad spectrum of pediatric health concerns, always prioritizing the best interests of her young patients and their families.

Dr. Bennett’s clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She believes in collaborating closely with parents and caregivers to develop individualized care plans that meet each child's unique needs. Her dedication to young patients in Ottawa is complemented by her commitment to clear communication, cultural sensitivity, and a supportive environment. She provides care in English and strives to create a welcoming setting where children and families feel comfortable and confident in their healthcare journey.

Dr. Susan Bennett 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.
• Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu): Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Developmental & Behavioral Conditions

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A complex developmental condition involving challenges with social communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
• Anxiety & Mood Disorders in Children: Conditions like generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or childhood depression affecting emotional well-being.
• 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.
• Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
• 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. Susan Bennett.

• 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.
• Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
• Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
• Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
• 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.

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. Bennett 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.

Ottawa Hospital's pediatric unit is situated within the vibrant Elmvale Acres neighborhood, conveniently accessible from the Hawthorne Meadows and Billings Bridge areas. The hospital's location near the National Arts Centre (Southam Hall entrance) and Sparks Street Mall makes it easy for families to visit. Public transit options include OC Transpo (O-Train LRT and Bus services), ensuring convenient access for families across Ottawa. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, offering a warm environment for young patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing ease of access for families driving to appointments. The hospital's pediatric department is a vital component of Ottawa Hospital, dedicated to delivering specialized, family-centered pediatric healthcare in a friendly and accessible setting.

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

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

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

How often should my child see a Pediatrician for well-child visits?

Well-child visits are scheduled regularly from birth through adolescence. In the first year, visits are frequent (e.g., shortly after birth, then at 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months). After that, they typically occur at 15, 18, 24 months, and then annually from age 3 onwards, or as per provincial guidelines. Dr. Bennett will provide a recommended schedule for your child. These visits are important for tracking growth, development, providing immunizations, and addressing any concerns early.

What should I do if my child gets sick after Dr. Bennett's office is closed?

Dr. Bennett's office will usually have instructions for after-hours care. This might involve a phone number for an on-call physician or nurse line, directions to a pediatric after-hours clinic, or advice on when to go to an urgent care center or emergency department. It's a good idea to ask about these procedures during a regular visit. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Ottawa Hospital
401 Smyth Road, General Campus
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1

Phone: (613) 738-3626

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

Dr. Bennett 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. Bennett 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/Bennett-Susan/0040701-54677