About
Dr. Valerie Susan Lewis is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at a pediatric clinic within a hospital department in Ajax, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Dr. Lewis adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that her practice aligns with the province’s rigorous medical regulations. She 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 approach emphasizes building trusting relationships with families and supporting children in reaching their full health potential in a warm, welcoming environment.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto (Canada) and has over 33 years of experience as a Pediatrician since beginning her practice in 1991. Dr. Lewis is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting her extensive training and commitment to excellence in pediatric care. Her professional credentials and ongoing education ensure she remains current with the latest advancements in child healthcare.
Dr. Lewis’s clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, evidence-based practice, and preventive health strategies. She values collaboration with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic and personalized care tailored to each child's needs. Fluent in English, she is dedicated to supporting young patients and their families in Ajax with a compassionate and reassuring approach that fosters trust and promotes healthy development.
Dr. Valerie Lewis provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Constipation & Other Common Digestive Issues: Difficulties with bowel movements or other common gastrointestinal complaints in children.
- Upper Respiratory Infections (Colds, Flu, Sinusitis): Frequent viral or bacterial infections affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses in children.
- Otitis Media (Ear Infections): Inflammation or infection of the middle ear, very common in young children.
Developmental & Behavioral Conditions
- Global Developmental Delay: Significant delays in two or more areas of development (e.g., motor, language, cognitive).
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
- 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.
- Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
- 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. Valerie Lewis.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Vision & Hearing Screening: Basic screening tests to detect potential vision or hearing problems in children.
- Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
- Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
- Lead Exposure Risk Assessment & Screening: Evaluating risk factors for lead exposure and performing screening tests as indicated by guidelines.
- Parental Guidance & Support: Providing education and support to parents on various aspects of child health, safety, behavior, and development.
- Routine Immunizations & Vaccinations: Administering vaccines according to provincial immunization schedules to protect children from preventable diseases.
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. Lewis 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.
Located within a child-friendly pediatric clinic in the Southwood neighborhood of Ajax, ON, Dr. Lewis’s practice is situated in the vibrant Westney Heights Area. The facility is easily accessible via Durham Region Transit (DRT), making it convenient for families in Ajax and surrounding communities. The clinic is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, providing a comfortable environment for young patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring easy access for families arriving by car. The practice environment is designed to foster a positive and reassuring experience for children and their caregivers, emphasizing family-centered care in a community setting.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Lewis 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. Lewis 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. Lewis's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Lewis, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Lewis is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Lewis 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. Lewis'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 should I manage my child's fever before contacting Dr. Lewis?
- 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. Lewis'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 are the current screen time recommendations for children, and how can Dr. Lewis 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. Lewis 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.
95 Bayly Street West
Ajax, ON L1S 7K8
Phone: (905) 683-7593 | Fax: (905) 683-7669
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Lewis 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. Lewis 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/Lewis-Valerie-Susan/0044620-58598