About
Dr. Susan Louise Bannister is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within Calgary, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that every child receives safe and effective medical care. Dr. Bannister 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. Her practice environment is designed to be welcoming, child-friendly, and supportive for families, making every visit a positive experience for her young patients and their parents.
With a solid foundation in medical education, Dr. Bannister graduated with a MD Doctor of Medicine from the University of Calgary. She holds specialty certification as a Pediatrician and maintains key certifications including LMCC and FRCPC Pediatrics. Her training and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with the latest pediatric care guidelines and best practices, enabling her to provide evidence-based and personalized care for her patients.
Dr. Bannister’s clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, emphasizing collaboration with parents and caregivers to support each child's health and well-being. She is dedicated to preventive health strategies, early intervention, and holistic approaches tailored to the needs of each patient. Fluent in English, she strives to build trusting relationships with her patients and families, supporting children through all stages of their growth and development in Calgary’s vibrant community.
Dr. Susan Bannister provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.
- Asthma (Mild to Moderate): A chronic lung condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing, leading to wheezing and breathing difficulties.
- Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- 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).
- Sleep Disorders in Children (Behavioral & Mild): Difficulties with initiating or maintaining sleep, or other sleep-related problems often managed with behavioral strategies.
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.
- 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.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Susan Bannister.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
- 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.
- Newborn Care & Examinations: Initial health assessments for newborns in hospital or clinic settings, including feeding support and parental guidance.
- Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
- 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.
- Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
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. Bannister 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant pediatric care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Bannister practices at a welcoming pediatric clinic located in Calgary's NW neighbourhoods, including Bowness, Montgomery, and Greenwood. The clinic is conveniently situated near The Bow Tower, making it easy for families to access. Public transit options such as Calgary Transit’s CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services are available nearby, providing flexible transportation choices. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, creating a comfortable environment for young patients. Parking is available at or near the clinic, ensuring convenient access for families arriving by car. The practice is designed to foster a friendly and supportive atmosphere for children and their caregivers, emphasizing a positive experience for every visit.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Bannister covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Medically necessary consultations, well-child visits, immunizations, and treatment for illnesses provided by a licensed Pediatrician like Dr. Bannister are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB. 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or Dr. Bannister's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Bannister, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Bannister is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Bannister 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). It's best to check with Dr. Bannister'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. Bannister 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. Bannister is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.
- How should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Bannister?
- A fever is often a sign that the body is fighting an infection. If your child has a fever but is otherwise comfortable and playful, a specific number on the thermometer isn't always the most important factor. You can help them feel more comfortable by offering fluids, dressing them in light clothing, and ensuring they get rest. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if appropriate for age and no contraindications) can be used to reduce fever and discomfort; always follow dosing instructions. Contact Dr. Bannister's office if your child is under 3 months with any fever, has a very high fever, a fever lasting more than a few days, or if the fever is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like lethargy, rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration.
- 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. Bannister, 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.
- What should I do if my child gets sick after Dr. Bannister's office is closed?
- Dr. Bannister'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.
- When should I take my child to see Dr. Bannister if they are sick?
- You should contact Dr. Bannister's office if your child has symptoms that concern you, such as a high or persistent fever (especially in infants), difficulty breathing or rapid breathing, signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, few wet diapers), severe pain, vomiting or diarrhea that is persistent or severe, a rash you're unsure about, unusual lethargy or irritability, or if your child just doesn't seem like themselves. The clinic staff can help determine if your child needs to be seen and how soon. For emergencies, always go to the nearest emergency department or call 911.
28 Oki Dr NW
Calgary, AB T3B 6A8
Phone: (403) 955-7049
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Bannister is a licensed Pediatrician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. Dr. Bannister 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=966cbd3d-187c-42c6-9ee8-9cebb562998e&i=136