pediatricassociatesatnorthwoodsma

Welcome Dr. Lauren Santos!

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 23:31:23 GMT

We’re thrilled to introduce Dr. Lauren Santos, who will be joining our pediatric team on May 4, 2026. You can read more about her education, training, and credentials on our Meet Our Team page. But here’s a virtual Meet-and-Greet—a chance to get to know Dr. Santos beyond her CV.

Why Pediatrics?

Dr. Santos has wanted to be a pediatrician since childhood, inspired by her own doctor who made every visit fun with silly fish names and great stickers. After starting her career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, she realized she was most drawn to the people behind the lab test tubes. What she loves most about pediatrics? Watching families grow—from caring for newborns to following children through every stage- with a focus on prevention and keeping kids healthy.

Making Visits Fun (and Less Scary)

Dr. Santos believes humor is powerful medicine. Her style blends solid medical care with warmth and lightheartedness—whether she's chatting about mermaids or debating pizza toppings (pepperoni is her favorite). She gets that doctor visits can be scary and uses singing and silliness to help kids get through tough moments. Her goal is simple: help children and parents feel heard, supported, and confident.

All Ages, Special Interests

While Dr. Santos cares for patients of all ages, she has a special passion for adolescent health and empowering teens to take charge of their well-being. She also loves guiding new parents who feel like their baby didn't come with an instruction manual. The diversity of pediatrics—from two-month-olds to teenagers—is one of her favorite parts of the job.

Beyond the Clinic

Outside work, Dr. Santos bakes sourdough bread, spends time with family, and plays with her rescue dog Scout (a lab with a curly tail and wrinkly face). She grew up in a musical family—her mom was both a nurse and a professional jazz musician—and played violin herself. She believes music supports healing, sleep, and mental health.

We Can’t Wait for You to Meet Her!

Dr. Santos's warmth, humor, and commitment to thoughtful, evidence-based care make her a wonderful addition to our team. Ready to schedule? Call our office to set up an appointment with Dr. Santos starting May 4th. We look forward to introducing her to your family!

The AAP Vaccine Schedule

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:29:27 GMT

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recently updated its vaccine schedule, and we want to let you know that our practice will be following their guidance. These updates are based on the latest research and a strong commitment to maintaining children’s health. You can read more on the AAP's parent-focused website: HealthyChildren.org .

Why We are Following the AAP Schedule

Why are we following the AAP schedule? First, because we want your child to grow and flourish—learning to crawl, then walk, pedaling a bicycle, hopping on the school bus, and one day learning to drive. Second, because the AAP has been guiding pediatric care for nearly a century, making evidence-based recommendations that help parents make informed decisions to allow their children to thrive.

Founded in 1930, the organization issued its first vaccine schedule in 1934. More information on this history is available here at AAP News . Today, with over 67,000 members, the AAP offers guidance on numerous aspects of children’s health—from nutrition and mental health to safety—but vaccines remain a central focus. Following their recommendations ensures that parents receive advice grounded in decades of expertise and science.

Vaccine Science and History

Vaccine science continues to advance as new research and data become available. This ongoing evolution has shaped the vaccines used today, saving countless lives and protecting communities. To explore the broader history of vaccine development and evaluation, visit the History of Vaccines 101 website by the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, a comprehensive resource highlighting the science, milestones, and impact of vaccination across generations.

Additional Resources for Parents

The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Vaccine Education Center offers a wide range of resources, including a mobile app. The site provides clear, evidence-based information about vaccines, including safety, schedules, and answers to frequently asked questions, helping parents make informed health decisions.

Additional information is also available in our Immunization section under Resources on our website.

Our Commitment

At Pediatric Associates at Northwoods, we carefully review every new recommendation before sharing it with families. We will never recommend a vaccine or treatment for your child that we would not choose for our own.

If you have questions regarding the updated vaccine schedule, our team is available to provide guidance and support.

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr at PAN

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 02:09:48 GMT

At Pediatric Associates at Northwoods, we are committed to fostering values of respect, compassion, and fairness in the children and families we serve. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. King—a visionary leader whose work continues to inspire hope, unity, and positive change. His dedication to justice and equality serves as a meaningful reminder of the role we all play in creating a more inclusive and caring world for future generations.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Office Hours

Please be advised that our office will be open for urgent care visits only on Monday, January 19, 2026 , from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM . Phone lines will open at 8:30 AM to assist with scheduling and general inquiries.

We invite families to honor this day by learning more about Dr. King’s life, participating in acts of service, or finding simple ways to promote kindness within their communities.

5 Fun Facts About Martin Luther King Jr.

Young Preacher Dr. King became a pastor at only 19 years old —younger than most college graduates today!
Nobel Peace Prize Winner At 35 , he won the Nobel Peace Prize for his work promoting peace and equality.
Music Lover He loved singing in church choirs and believed music could inspire people to do good .
Spoke Up Early By age 15 , Martin was already giving speeches about fairness and justice in his school.
Dreamer and Doer His famous “I Have a Dream” speech inspires hope, but he always reminded people that dreams become real when we take action together .

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your family’s care!

A Message from Dr Frank & Beth Tomase

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 22:30:43 GMT

After 36 wonderful years of caring for families in our community, Beth and Dr. Frank Tomase have announced their plans to retire in 2026. Beth will be retiring in the spring and Dr. Tomase in August. While they are excited for the next chapter, they will truly miss the many families they’ve had the privilege to serve.

A Message from Dr. Frank & Beth Tomase

Dear patients and families,

It is with mixed emotions that we are sharing with you our plans to retire in 2026. Beth plans on retiring in the spring and Dr. Tomase in August.

It’s hard for us to believe that it has been 36 years since we opened this practice. During that time we have had the pleasure and privilege to meet and care for so many wonderful families, which now extends to a second generation. It has been a truly fulfilling experience participating in the care of your children and young adults.

When we started out in our small office in Raynham, we had no idea of the growth our practice would experience over the years. It is that very growth that allows us to be confident that you will continue to receive quality, compassionate health care after our departure from the practice. In addition to our long-standing medical staff, Dr. Sengupta joined us 2 years ago. He shares our enthusiasm for pediatric and adolescent care and has a similar practice style. Additionally, the practice will be looking to add another provider to assure as smooth a transition as possible.

We would like to sincerely thank all of you for entrusting us with the care of your children over the years. While we are excited for the next chapter of our lives, we will miss seeing the many faces we have known for so long as well as those we have met more recently.

Our office will happily work with you in transitioning to another provider within our practice.

Wishing you good health and happiness,

Frank and Beth Tomase

2025 Holiday Hours at PAN

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 18:31:06 GMT

The holiday season is here, and we know it’s a busy time for families! At Pediatric Associates at Northwoods, we want to help you plan ahead for your child’s care. While we hope you're enjoying time with family and friends, we know that kids' illnesses and accidents don’t always follow the holiday schedule. To allow our team to enjoy the holidays, we’ll be operating under special hours.

Here is our holiday schedule:

• Monday, December 22nd: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Tuesday, December 23rd: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Wednesday, December 24th (Christmas Eve): 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

• Thursday, December 25th (Christmas Day): Closed

• Friday, December 26th: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Saturday, December 27th: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM

• Sunday, December 28th: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM

• Monday, December 29th: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Tuesday, December 30th: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

• Wednesday, December 31st (New Year’s Eve): 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM

• Thursday, January 1st (New Year’s Day): Closed

• Friday, January 2nd: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

An on-call physician will be available for urgent issues. In the event of an emergency, please call 911 or visit your local emergency room.

Wishing you and your family a joyful, healthy holiday season! We’re grateful for the trust you place in us to care for your child.

Two Effective Ways of Protecting Babies from RSV

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:30:16 GMT

As the colder months approach, so does the return of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Let’s explore some key measures to keep our little ones healthy and safe!

Why is RSV a Concern?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms in older children and adults. Nearly all children under age 2 will contract RSV, with the youngest facing the greatest challenges. About 2-3 out of every 100 young infants require hospitalization, resulting in 58,000 to 80,000 admissions annually. In these infants, the virus can settle in the lungs, leading to bronchiolitis—an inflammation of the small airways that makes breathing difficult. What may seem like a mild illness can escalate quickly.

Understanding the RSV Preventative Antibody Injection

The RSV Preventative Antibody injection, known as Beyfortus (nirsevimab), provides immunity through specially designed antibodies targeting RSV. It offers immediate, “ready-made” protection against the virus, with clinical studies showing an 80% reduction in hospitalization risk.

Beyfortus is generally well tolerated, with uncommon side effects that may include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site and mild rash. Beyfortus builds on over 25 years of safe use of Synagis, a previous formulation that has been safely administered to millions of high-risk infants. However, Synagis required monthly injections, limiting its use. In contrast, Beyfortus simplifies the process with a single-dose option that provides lasting protection throughout the RSV season and is now available for all young infants.

Who Should Get the Injection?

All infants under 8 months during their first RSV season (October to March).
Infants between 8 and 19 months old at high risk, such as those with chronic lung disease or congenital heart disease, during their second RSV season.

An Earlier Opportunity: The RSV Vaccine for Expecting Mothers

Another way to protect your baby is the RSV vaccine for pregnant women, which prompts the mother’s immune system to produce antibodies passed through the placenta. Vaccinating mom at 32-36 weeks (at least 14 days before delivery) provides vital protection during the first months of an infant’s life. It significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization by about 60% and ICU admission by 80% for vaccinated infants.

If you are pregnant, discuss your eligibility with your OB. Babies whose moms received the vaccine typically do not need the RSV Preventative Antibody, as they have protection from maternal antibodies.

Important Supply and Administration Information

Beyfortus can be provided at the birth hospital, but availability may vary, so we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to protect your newborn when it arises. This injection can be given alongside routine immunizations during wellness visits or at nurse-only appointments.

For More Information

Navigating infant healthcare can be complex, but staying informed is key. For additional resources, you can visit the following websites:

Together, we can keep our little ones safe and healthy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:13:52 GMT

Our office hours for the holiday:

Wednesday, November 26: Closing early at 2:00 PM.
Thursday-Friday, November 27-28: An on-call physician will be available for emergency issues. Closed for office hours to allow our staff to spend time with their families.

A Thanksgiving Celebration of Gratitude: What Our Kids and Families Are Thankful For

As Thanksgiving approaches, it's the perfect time to reflect on the things that matter most. We asked our young patients and their families to share what they’re grateful for this year. Here’s a glimpse of their heartwarming responses .

The Little Ones: Gratitude for Simple Joys

Our youngest patients express their gratitude in the simplest ways-whether it’s family, food or a favorite toy.

"I love my mommy, sister, and brother!" – Age 5
"I’m thankful for going to school!" – Age 4
"I’m grateful for eating good food!" – Age 4
"Playing catch with my brother and sisters." – Age 5
"Dolls in the Tubby." – Age 2
‘Milk.” – Age 15 months
"Thankful for being nice." – Age 3
"Hearts." – Age 5

These sweet, joyful expressions remind us that gratitude often comes from everyday things.

The Joy of Pets

Pets hold a special place in many families' hearts:

"I’m thankful for my kitty Jax!" – Age 4
"I’m grateful for my dog!" – Age 9
"My bunnies." – Age 7

Pets are more than just animals—they’re family. This Thanksgiving, we celebrate both our human families and the pets that brighten our days .

Tweens and Teens: A Growing Sense of Appreciation

As children grow older, their gratitude becomes more nuanced. They begin to recognize the importance of health, family, friends, and opportunities to pursue their passions.

"I’m grateful for my family and friends." – Age 9
"Sports make me happy." – Age 12
"Food and TikTok, Uggs, Mom." – Age 12
"I’m grateful for my family, friends, sports, and being alive." – Age 11
"I’m grateful for my family, my best friends, and Spotify." – Age 12
"I’m thankful for good grades and the opportunities I have." – Age 15
"I’m grateful for my friends who are always there for me, and my mom who supports everything I do." – Age 14
"I’m thankful for my health, my family, and that I get to do what I love—dance and play soccer." – Age 13
"I’m grateful for my phone." – Age 13

For these teens, gratitude extends beyond family and friends, embracing technology, passions, and opportunities to grow and express themselves.

Parents and Adults: Gratitude for Support, Love, and Health

For many adults, gratitude focuses on family, health, and the support systems that sustain them.

"I’m extremely grateful for my village." – Age 30
"Thankful for a healthy & happy family." – Age 42
"Thankful for my beautiful wife and our healthy baby girl!" – Age 34
"Thankful for the doctors that listen." – Age 43
"Thank you for my son." – Age 35
"I’m grateful that I finally live in a peaceful country." – Age 30

Adults express deep appreciation for the people who support them—whether it’s a spouse, children, or healthcare providers. These responses remind us that gratitude often comes from the relationships and support systems in our lives.

Grateful for You: A Thanksgiving Message to Our Families

Take a moment this Thanksgiving to reflect on what you’re most thankful for. The gratitude shared by our young patients and their families reminds us that the most important things are often the ones closest to us.

We are grateful for our wonderful patients and their families. Your trust and partnership in your child’s care mean so much to us, and we are honored to be a part of your health journey.

From all of us at Pediatric Associates at Northwoods, we wish you a joyful, peaceful Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and all the things you’re grateful for.

Honoring Indigenous Peoples Day

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 12:03:06 GMT

Please note that our office will be closed for regular services in observance of Indigenous Peoples Day, Monday, October 13, 2025. We will be open for urgent care from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Our phones will be open starting at 8:30 AM for any urgent inquiries or appointments.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a time to honor the enduring presence, wisdom, and cultural contributions of Indigenous communities. It reminds us to recognize their deep connections to the land and the traditions that have been preserved and shared across generations, often in the face of great challenges.

This day is not only about celebration, but also about reflection. It calls us to acknowledge the history of colonization, displacement, and inequities faced by Indigenous peoples, while also recognizing their strength, resilience, and continued influence on our shared story.

As we observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day, let us take the opportunity to learn more about the diverse languages, customs, and knowledge that shape Indigenous cultures. By listening, learning, and supporting Indigenous communities, we can help amplify their voices and contribute to a future rooted in respect, inclusion, and equity.

Today, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and commit to building a more just and inclusive tomorrow—together with Indigenous peoples.

Here at PAN, we are also reminded of the privilege it is to care for all children and families in our community. We are truly grateful for the trust you place in us and for the opportunity to play a role in your children’s health and well-being.

Ways to celebrate: 2025 Indigenous Peoples Day Events

Massachusetts Center for Native American Awareness

What to do with ALL THAT CANDY?

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 21:38:07 GMT

�� Halloween is full of excitement—costumes, friends, and candy galore! But come November 1st, parents face the real challenge: what should you do with ALL THAT CANDY ? Let kids go free rein… or pace their candy spree?

Safety First ��

Before heading out, make sure costumes are visible with reflective tape, a glow necklace, or a light-up pumpkin bucket �� . Bring a flashlight and stay on sidewalks. Check treats for choking hazards, anything unwrapped and possible food allergens.��.

THE REAL QUESTION : What to Do with ALL THAT CANDY ��

There are two kinds of Halloween parents. Free Rein, Child Control lets kids eat as much as they want (or until a little sick). Parent Portion Patrol doles out a few pieces at a time to prevent sugar overload. Both approaches have their merits : learning moderation versus avoiding tummy aches ��.

A quick poll of pediatricians and staff at PAN showed even the professionals are split! ��

On the Free Rein, Child Control side, one nurse said, “If you eat it all today, then you won’t have any tomorrow—make it last!” Another added, “They ate all their candy and learned, hey, it’s gone.” A pediatrician noted, “It’s not forbidden fruit anymore—they learn to moderate and gradually even forget about it.” ��

On the Parent Portion Patrol side, one pediatrician shared, “Two pieces, then throw it all away.” Another said, “Most of the fun is collecting anyway.” One nurse laughed, “You can have some after lunch—but my kid got so hyper on all that sugar, I was running around the house trying to keep up!” ��

Dental Considerations ��

Dentists often run candy buy-back programs, trading treats for small prizes. The real issue isn’t how much sugar kids eat, but how long it stays on their teeth. Eating candy all at once, then brushing, is better than nibbling throughout the day ��.

Favorite Treats at PAN Pediatrics

�� Dr Mark Acker -Reese’s
�� Dr Lynne Fasanello-100 GRAND
�� Dr Beth McQuaid-Tootsie Roll Mini

�� Dr Pat Silvia- HERSHEY'S with Almonds

�� Dr Shayan Sengupta-SNICKERS

�� Dr Frank Tomase- SNICKERS

�� Beth Tomase PNP- Dark Chocolate Reese’s

So—what kind of Halloween parent are you? Next time you see your pediatrician, ask what they did with their kids… though they might not admit to swiping a mini Tootsie Roll or two! ��

�� Happy Halloween from PAN! ��

New Resource Link: Connecting Families to Community Support Programs

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 14:10:55 GMT

We’re excited to share a new addition to our website designed to support families in navigating important assistance programs. Our goal is to help connect you to the resources you need to address health-related social needs that impact your family’s well-being.

This new link provides quick access to a wide range of support services, including:

· MassHealth / MGB ACO

· Public Food Resources

· Domestic Violence Awareness & Support

· Public Utility Assistance

· Public Housing Resources

Each section includes clear program descriptions, eligibility guidelines, step-by-step instructions, search tools, and links to applications—making it easier to find and apply for the help you need.

We hope this resource will be a valuable tool for families seeking guidance, stability, and support. Click here to explore available resources: https://affiliatedpediatrics.com/resources

August Update

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 14:02:37 GMT

As August begins, we're officially a little more than halfway through summer vacation. While there's still plenty of fun to enjoy, it’s also a great time to start preparing for the upcoming school year. Here’s how you can make sure you’re ready:

1. Request School Forms Early

To avoid the end-of-summer rush, we recommend reaching out now to request any necessary school forms. You can easily do this by giving us a call or, even better, using our convenient patient portal. Early action ensures you have everything you need without the last-minute stress.

2. Medication Management

While we strive to minimize the need for medications during school hours, some situations require it. If your child needs medication at school, please make sure to request both the school form and a medication order together. Remember, all medications must be in their original pharmacy-labeled containers.

3. ADHD Medication

Given current medication shortages, it's crucial not to wait until the last minute to request a refill for ADHD medications. Early preparation helps ensure that you won’t face any issues when school starts.

4. Check Vaccine Requirements

Ensure that your child is up-to-date with the required vaccines for school. For detailed information, please refer to this link Massachusetts Public Schools Immunization Requirements . Keeping up with these requirements will help your child start the school year without any delays.

Taking care of these tasks now will pave the way for a smooth and successful school year. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help!

Enjoy the rest of the summer!

Don’t Forget the Tick Check!

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:07:45 GMT

As New England thaws and spring brings warm sunny days filled with outdoor fun, it also brings bugs—especially ticks! After a long winter, it’s easy to let our guard down—but ticks are already active, and daily tick checks are an important part of keeping your child healthy.

Ticks like to hide in warm, hard-to-see places, including:

behind the ears, in the ear folds, and at the nape of the neck
under the arms and around the waistband
behind the knees and between the toes

Getting into the habit of checking your child for ticks every evening—especially after time outdoors—can go a long way in preventing tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease. A quick check before bath time or bedtime can make a big difference.

For tips on what to do if you find a tick on your child, visit the CDC Tick Bite Bot —an interactive tool that can help guide you through what to do next. The site also includes helpful information about preventing bites and recognizing symptoms of Lyme Disease.

Celebrating our 2024 MHQP Award for Patient Trust!

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 01:58:01 GMT

��Exciting News!��

We are thrilled to announce that Pediatric Associates at Northwoods has been recognized by Massachusetts Health Quality Partners (MHQP) with a 2024 Patient Experience Award for Patients’ Trust in Their Providers!

This award is a testament to the strong relationships we build with our patients and families every day. Trust is the foundation of quality pediatric care, and we are incredibly proud of our team for their dedication to creating a welcoming, supportive, and compassionate environment where children and families feel heard, valued, and well cared for.

MHQP is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality, patient experience, and transparency in Massachusetts. Each year, MHQP collects and analyzes patient survey data to evaluate healthcare experiences across the state. Their Patient Experience Awards recognize top-performing practices in key areas such as provider communication, coordination of care, and patient trust. This recognition reflects direct feedback from families like yours, making it an especially meaningful honor.

We are grateful to our patients for their confidence in us and to our incredible staff for their commitment to providing the highest level of care.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your child’s healthcare journey! ��‍⚕️

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 17:59:08 GMT

What is a leprechaun's favorite cereal?

��Lucky Charms!��

St. Patrick’s Day , celebrated on March 17th, is a fun holiday that honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. While it’s widely recognized for its shamrocks, leprechauns, and everything green, the holiday originally began as a religious observance. Today, it’s a joyful celebration full of parades, music, and festive cheer.

As you enjoy the day, here are a few tips to keep your little ones happy and healthy:

�� Stay Hydrated – Whether at a parade or home, make sure kids drink plenty of water.

��Allergy-Friendly Treats – Double-check ingredients in festive snacks, especially if your child has food allergies.

�� Safe Celebrations – Avoid small decorations or trinkets that could be choking hazards for little ones.

�� Get Active – Take a walk and see how many green things your child can spot!

�� Drive Safely – If you're out and about, be mindful of road safety and always drive carefully.

Fun Green Things to D o:

�� Green Scavenger Hunt – Create a list of green things to find around the house or yard.

�� Make Green Crafts – Use green paper, markers, and glue to make shamrocks, leprechauns, or rainbows.

��Green Snack Time – Try green smoothies, guacamole, or a colorful fruit salad with green grapes, kiwi, and apples.

�� Wear Green – Get in the festive spirit with green outfits!

Fun Leprechaun Facts

Leprechauns, those mischievous creatures from Irish folklore, have some fun traits! Here are a few:

��Leprechaun Origins: Leprechauns are a type of fairy from Irish folklore, known for their mischievous nature and love of gold.

��Appearance: They are small, bearded men wearing green coats and hats.

��Occupation: Leprechauns are cobblers or shoemakers by trade.

��Gold at the End of the Rainbow: According to legend, leprechauns hide their pots of gold at the end of rainbows.

Fun Books for St. Patrick’s Day

Add some extra magic with these highly-rated reads:

��"The Luckiest St. Patrick's Day Ever!" by Teddy Slater

�� "How to Catch a Leprechaun" by Adam Wallace

�� " There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Clover!" by Lucille Colandro

A ll of us at PAN wish you a safe, happy, and lucky St. Paddy’s Day!

��

Pediatric Associates will be open for our regular office hours.

Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 23:33:55 GMT

At Pediatric Associates at Northwoods, we believe in teaching children the values of kindness, equality, and standing up for what is right—principles embodied by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. On this special day, we honor his life and legacy as a leader who inspired people of all ages to dream of a brighter, more inclusive future.

Dr. King’s message reminds us of the importance of compassion, understanding, and working together to build a better world for all children. We encourage families to take this opportunity to share Dr. King’s story, engage in community service, or find ways to spread kindness in your neighborhood.

Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Office Hours
Please note that our office will be open for urgent care visits only on Monday, January 20, 2025 , from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM . Our phone lines will open at 8:30 AM to assist with scheduling and any inquiries.

Thank you for trusting us with your family’s care.

Learn more about Dr. King’s life and legacy:
5 Things to Know: Surprising Facts About Martin Luther King Jr.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture

Understanding Infant Language Development

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 23:56:47 GMT

Web Spotlight: Insights from the ZERO to THREE website. Ever wondered how babies learn to talk? Remarkably, even at just a few months old, infants prefer speech sounds and can distinguish their parents' voices from strangers. It’s fascinating how early this skill develops! One important element is “parentese,” a special way babies and their parents communicate that goes beyond simple baby talk.

Today, we’re excited to highlight Zero to Three , an excellent website dedicated to early childhood development. Dive in with this engaging article on how infants develop language!

Important Update for Families with HPHC Quality or Explorer Plans

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 14:12:17 GMT

HPHC Quality or Explorer Insurance Plans

Effective July 1, 2024, Pediatric Associates at Northwoods and other practices in the Affiliated Pediatric Practices (APP) network will no longer be covered under the Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare (HPHC) Quality HMO plan. This change comes as Harvard Pilgrim/GIC has reclassified our network status, moving us from tier 2 (in-network provider) to tier 3 (high cost/excluded provider).

Here’s What You Need to Know:

1. Why This Change? : The decision to change our network status was made by Harvard Pilgrim/GIC, not by our practices. This adjustment affects all APP practices, as well as pediatric specialists and hospitals affiliated with Mass General Brigham (MGB).

2. What’s Affected? : This update impacts all APP network practices and related MGB specialists and facilities.

What You Can Do:

Check Your Insurance Options : During open enrollment, take a moment to review your insurance plan options to make sure that Pediatric Associates at Northwoods and MGB specialists are included.
Confirm Coverage: Listing our physicians on your enrollment form doesn’t automatically guarantee coverage. Please double-check with your insurance plan to ensure you’re covered.
Plan Changes: After open enrollment ends, you won’t be able to change your insurance plan. Our office is unable to assist with these changes.

Need Help?

Insurance Questions: For questions about which physicians are included in specific plans, please contact your insurance provider directly.
Office Assistance: Our staff has limited information on insurance plans, so we encourage you to reach out to your insurance provider for detailed queries.

We want to make sure your child continues to receive the best care, so please be sure to review your insurance options carefully during this enrollment period.

Thank you for your understanding!

Do you know about Patient Gateway?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 20:03:12 GMT

The Patient Gateway is a portal into your child's medical records. You can access your child's most recent physical, upcoming appointments, historical visits, lab results and vaccine records. This can all be done at your convenience, 24/7 using your cell phone, tablet or computer with internet access. Speak with our front desk to obtain a secure user ID and password...it's that simple!