About
Dr. Zahra Michelle Benn is a dedicated Pediatrician committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate healthcare for infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at Postgraduate Medical Education in Toronto, ON, she is an integral part of the local pediatric healthcare community. Dr. Benn's practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). 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 to support their children's well-being in a warm, welcoming environment.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the Medical University of the Americas in Belize. With over 7 years of experience as a Pediatrician since 2017, Dr. Benn is well-versed in the nuances of child healthcare. She is recognized as a CPSO Recognized Specialist, reflecting her expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of pediatric practice. Her ongoing professional development ensures she remains current with the latest evidence-based approaches in pediatric medicine.
Dr. Benn's clinical philosophy centers on family-centered care, emphasizing collaboration with parents and caregivers to tailor healthcare plans that meet each child's unique needs. She believes in preventive health and early intervention, guiding families through all stages of childhood development. Fluent in English, Gujarati, and Hindi, she strives to communicate effectively with diverse communities across Toronto, ensuring that every family feels valued and understood. Her dedication is driven by a genuine passion for supporting the health and happiness of young patients and their families.
Dr. Zahra Benn provides care for a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
Common General Pediatric Conditions
- Minor Injuries (Cuts, Bruises, Sprains): Common physical injuries that occur during childhood play and activities.
- 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
- 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.
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Adolescent Health Concerns
- Sports Injuries & Concussions: Injuries common in active teenagers, including head injuries requiring careful management.
- Menstrual Disorders (e.g., irregular periods, dysmenorrhea): Irregular, heavy, or painful periods in adolescent girls.
- Acne & Other Skin Conditions: Common dermatological issues prevalent during adolescence.
This list provides examples and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice, please discuss your child's specific situation with Dr. Zahra Benn.
- Nutritional Counseling & Weight Management for Children & Adolescents: Guidance on healthy eating habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and managing weight concerns in the pediatric population.
- 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.
- Diagnosis & Management of Acute Childhood Illnesses: Evaluation and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, sore throats, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Anticipatory Guidance for Injury Prevention: Educating families on age-specific safety measures to prevent common childhood injuries.
- Management of Chronic Pediatric Conditions: Ongoing care and coordination for children with long-term health issues like asthma, allergies, eczema, diabetes, and ADHD.
- Developmental Screening & Surveillance: Assessing developmental milestones (motor, language, social, cognitive) and identifying potential delays for early intervention.
- 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. Benn 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.
Postgraduate Medical Education's clinic is situated in Toronto's vibrant Dorset Park, Wexford Heights, and Scarborough Town Centre neighbourhoods. The practice is conveniently located near Chinatown Centre, making it easily accessible for families. Public transit options, including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), provide simple access for patients coming from different parts of the city. The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families, creating a friendly environment for young patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, ensuring ease of access for those arriving by car. The clinic's family-friendly setting fosters a comfortable atmosphere for children to receive their healthcare in a relaxed and supportive environment.
- Are pediatric services with Dr. Benn 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. Benn 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. Benn's office, especially for subspecialty care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Benn, a Pediatrician?
- For a general Pediatrician, you may be able to book an appointment directly for your child, particularly if Dr. Benn is accepting new patients or for newborn care. However, if Dr. Benn 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. Benn'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.
- 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. Benn 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.
- What does a Pediatrician like Dr. Benn 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. Benn is dedicated to providing family-centered care and supporting children through all stages of their development.
- When should I take my child to see Dr. Benn if they are sick?
- You should contact Dr. Benn'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.
Postgraduate Medical Education
Room MDCL - 3101A, 407-3030 Lawrence Avenue East, McMaster University
Toronto, ON M1P 2T7
Phone: (416) 431-5292 | Fax: (416) 431-4011
The facility is wheelchair accessible and aims to be welcoming to children and families.
Dr. Benn 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. Benn 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/Benn-Zahra-Michelle/0316104-111913