pediatrichealthassociatespha

PHA Blood Drive

Sat, 17 Oct 2026 22:03:06 GMT

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in and supported our first blood drive in partnership with the Connecticut Blood Center!

Thanks to the generosity of our amazing donors, 25 units of whole blood was collected, helping save up to 75 lives! We are so grateful to everyone who took the time to donate and help make a difference in the lives of others.

A special thank you to Joseph's Bagel & Grill for generously donating bagels, muffins, and croissants to help fuel our donors and volunteers!

We are proud of our PHA community for coming together to support such an important cause. Every donation makes a difference!

New Mom & Baby Expo

Sun, 11 Oct 2026 21:41:51 GMT

PHA was happy to be part of the Fairfield Moms New Mom & Baby Expo on October 11, 2026.

We love opportunities to connect with our community and support families as they begin one of life's most exciting journeys!

Bridgeport Hospital Community Baby Shower

Sat, 10 Oct 2026 21:31:12 GMT

A beautiful day celebrating babies, supporting families, and bringing our community together!

PHA was honored to participate at Bridgeport Hospital's Community Baby Shower on October 10, 2026, and be part of such a meaningful event.

Town of Fairfield E-Bike Safety Event

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 21:54:36 GMT

Drs. Botta, Citarella, Jalkut, and Moczerniuk were proud to participate in the Town of Fairfield E-Bike safety event on October 1, 2026.

All of us at Pediatric Healthcare Associates stand with our first responders in their efforts to educate families about safety in the use of e-bike and scooters in our communities. We appreciated hearing the stories from a crash survivor and first responders.

PHA Job Fair

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 02:24:49 GMT

Join us at the PHA Job Fair on Saturday, September 26, from 10:00am to 12:00pm at our Trumbull office.

Join us at the PHA Job Fair on Saturday, September 26 , from 10:00am to 12:00pm at our Trumbull office .

We're looking for:

LPNs
Call Center Receptionists
Front Desk Receptionists

Come meet our team, explore opportunities and learn what makes PHA a great place to build your career.

Bring your résumé. We'd love to meet you! Registration is encouraged.

School Supply Drive 2026

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 02:28:29 GMT

A HUGE thank you to our amazing PHA patients, families, friends, staff, and sponsors for making this year's School Supply Drive such a success!

A HUGE thank you to our amazing PHA patients, families, friends, staff, and sponsors for making this year's School Supply Drive such a success! Together, we filled a record-breaking 165 backpacks, helping children head back to school prepared and ready to succeed.

Our 2nd Annual PHA Backpack Giveaway on Sunday, August 9th was truly heartwarming. Seeing the kids' excitement as they picked out their new backpacks was a wonderful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together.

A special shoutout to Lyla, Skylar, and Zach Nuzie, who raised $700 through a lemonade stand to purchase school supplies, and to Mikeleena, one of our amazing nurses, and her sister, who donated 21 backpacks filled with supplies!

We are also incredibly grateful to our generous sponsors and contributors: Roller Bearing Company of America, Ramos Fuel & Trucking, Town House Salon, Really Good Stuff, Discount School Supply, E & J 360 Photo Booth, Uniformz, and Minuteman Press in Fairfield. Your generosity made such a difference!

Thank you to EVERYONE who donated, supported, and helped make this year's drive our best yet! Together, we're helping kids start the school year with confidence, excitement, and the supplies they need to succeed.

Congratulations to Dr. Sean Butler!

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 02:31:06 GMT

We are incredibly proud to congratulate Dr. Sean Butler, who was recognized as a 2026 Future of Healthcare Award recipient.

We are incredibly proud to congratulate Dr. Sean Butler , who was recognized as a 2026 Future of Healthcare Award recipient. This prestigous honor celebrates healthcare professionals whose dedication, innovation, and commitment to exceptional patient care are helping shape the future of healthcare in our region.

Congratulations to Dr. Butler and all of the outstanding healthcare heroes recognized during this special evening. Thank you to the Greater Bridgeport Medical Association for recognizing the individuals who make such a meaningful impact on health and well-being of our community. We are so grateful to have Dr. Butler as part of the Pediatric Healthcare Associates family!

Protect Your Kids from Ticks and Bug Bites This Summer

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 02:32:41 GMT

As families spend more time outdoors during the warm summer months, health officials are reminding parents to stay vigilant about ticks and insect bites. Longer evenings and more time spent in grass, wooded areas, and gardens mean increased exposure to ticks and other biting insects — and with that, a higher risk of tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease.

Make Tick Checks a Daily Habit

After any outdoor play, whether it's a hike, a backyard barbecue, or an afternoon at the park, take a few minutes to do a thorough tick check on your child. Ticks are experts at finding warm, hidden spots on the body, so be sure to check:

The scalp and hairline
Behind and inside the ears
Under the arms
Behind the knees
Around the waistband and groin area
Between the toes

Don't forget to check yourself, other family members, and even pets who spent time outside, since ticks can hitch a ride indoors.

Choose the Right Repellent
Insect repellent is one of the best tools for preventing bites in the first place. Look for products specifically labeled as safe for your child's age group, and always check the concentration of active ingredients like DEET or picaridin on the label. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding repellents on infants under 2 months old and using the lowest effective concentration for older children. Apply repellent to exposed skin and clothing, avoiding the hands, eyes, and mouth.

What to Do If You Find a Tick
If you do discover a tick, don't panic. Prompt removal significantly lowers the risk of disease transmission. Here's how to do it safely:

Use fine-tipped tweezers and grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.
Pull upward with steady, even pressure — avoid twisting or jerking, which can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.
Clean the bite area and your hands thoroughly with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
Dispose of the tick by flushing it, submerging it in alcohol, or sealing it in tape.

Keep an eye on the bite site over the following weeks. If you notice a rash (especially one that looks like a bullseye), fever, fatigue, or joint pain, contact your child's pediatrician right away, as these can be early signs of a tick-borne illness.

A little prevention goes a long way this summer. A few extra minutes checking for ticks and applying repellent can help keep your family's outdoor fun safe and worry-free.

Griffin Hospital Baby Fair

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 02:35:43 GMT

We had a wonderful time at the Griffin Hospital Baby Fair on Saturday, May 30, 2026!

We had a wonderful time at the Griffin Hospital Baby Fair on Saturday, May 30, 2026!

It was a pleasure meeting so many expecting parents and growing families from our community. Our clinicians enjoyed having meaningful conversations, answering questions about pediatric care, sharing parenting resources, and helping families feel more confident as they prepare for their newest arrivals.

One of the highlights of the day was reconnecting with some of our current PHA families and seeing familiar faces stop by to say hello. Thank you to everyone who visited our table, shared their stories, and allowed us to be part of such an exciting time in your family's journey.

We look forward to continuing to support families throughout every stage of childhood and can't wait to see many of the new faces we met become part of the PHA family.

Coming Soon - Epic, Electronic Medical Record System

Thu, 21 May 2026 19:33:49 GMT

We are excited to share that Pediatric Healthcare Associates will be transitioning to a new electronic medical record system, Epic, beginning June 9, 2026.

This upgrade is an important step in enhancing your experience wiht our practice. Epic will allow us to improve scheduling, communication, documentation, and access to your child's medical information. While our systems are changing, our commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care for your children remains the same.

During this transition period, we will be doing our best to provide a smooth and supportive experience for all our families.

Additionally, for a short time, you may receive two separate billing statements, one from our previous system and one from Epic. If you have any questions regarding your balance, please contact our billing office at (203) 452-8329.

Once the new Epic patient portal is available, we will provide detailed instructions on how to access your account and manager your child's health information online.

Our team is working diligently to make this transition as smooth as possible. We truly appreciate your patience and understanding at this time.

Thank you for trusting us with your child's care. We are honored to serve your family and look forward to continuing to meet your healthcare needs.

Best regards,
Karen D. Michaels
Chief Operations Officer

Our Family Continues to Grow!

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:31:01 GMT

We're so happy to welcome Audrey Spiegel, APRN , to our team at Pediatric Healthcare Associates! Audrey brings a kind heart, a gently approach, and a deep commitment to caring for children and supporting families every step of the way.

We know our patients are in wonderful hands, and we can't wait for you to meet her!

Beach Bunny 5K

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:30:16 GMT

We had such a wonderful time at the Beach Bunny 5K on Saturday! Despite the chilly temperatures, we enjoyed connecting with the community and promoting healthy habits like nutrition and exerecise.

Thank you to all the families who stopped by our table to say hello and engage with us - we loved seeing you there!

Our Trumbull Office Has Moved!

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 11:43:14 GMT

We're excited to announce that our Trumbull office has moved to a new location.

If your child has an upcoming appointment scheduled in Trumbull, please make note of our new address:
6600 Main Street, Trumbull, CT 06611

We will begin seeing patients at this new location starting Monday, March 16, 2026.

Our new space allows us to better serve our patients and families, and we're excited to welcome you there.

Thank you for being a part of our our practice, and we look forward to see you soon!

School Supply Drive 2025

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:44:26 GMT

A huge thank you goes out to our amazing patients, friends, staff, and sponsors. Your generosity made this year's school supply drive another incredible success. Together, we filled 120 backpacks for our PHA patients, helping them start the school year equipped and ready to succeed.

On Sunday, 8/17 we hosted our very first PHA Backpack Giveaway, and it was a truly heartwarming day. Seeing the kids' faces light up as they picked out a brand-new backpack filled with supplies was priceless and a reminder of the power of community support.

We would like to give a special shoutout to several of our incredible contributors:

Grace Kehoe and her family donated 17 backpacks and 4 lunch bags! Thank you, Kehoe family for your generosity!
Mikeleena , one of our amazing nurses, and her sister donated 14 backpacks filled with supplies! Thank you for your kindness and support!
Connecticut ENT Specialists generously donated 12 backpacks filled with supplies! Thank you for helping make this event such a success!
Isabelle et Vincent French Bakery hosted one of our donation boxes, it overflowed with school supplies and backpacks for the kids! We are so grateful for their support and their amazing customers who helped fill it.
Uniformz donated several awesome backpacks. Thank you for your support and donation!

A huge shoutout to our amazing sponsors for their incredible generosity, we couldn't have done it without you!

Ramos Fuel & Trucking - we greatly appreciate your generous donation!
Lastra Electric - thank you for your generous donation!
Sign Maintenance Service Co . - thank you for your kindness and generous donation!
Fairfield County Exteriors - thank you for your generous donation and support!
Roller Bearing Company of America - your generous donation makes such a difference, thank you!

A BIG thank you to EVERYONE who came together to make this year's school supply drive an incredible success!

Sand Jam Movie Night 2025

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:24:54 GMT

Wow, what a fun night we had at Sand Jam Movie Night at Jennings Beach!

Our awesome nurse practitioners, Karalee Pino and Erin Flynn , had a blast connecting with families and teaching kids (and their parents) about the importance of good nutrition and staying active.

We were so impressed by how many kids answered the nutrition questions correctly. It sparked even more curiosity and inspired them to keep testing their knowledge.

It was a wonderful family event, and we're already looking forward to going back next year!

Meet the Newest Member of our Medical Team

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:13:32 GMT

We are thrilled to welcome the newest member of our medical team, Amy Salce, APRN !

Amy will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Fairfield office , and we're so excited for you to meet her. We know you'll love her just as much as we do!

Friday Night Summer Hours

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:10:52 GMT

Pediatric Healthcare Associates summer hours are back for Friday night only!
Summer Hours:
Effective June 6th - August 29th
4:30pm to 6:00pm

Monday - Thursday hours will remain the same.

Castle Connolly Top Docs 2025

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:09:42 GMT

Congratulations to the Castle Connolly Top Doctors of 2025!
We are proud to announce that 15 Pediatric Healthcare Associates physicians have been recognized in their field.
This prestigious ranking is based on peer nominations, recognizing the top 7% of physicians nationwide.

Toy Drive 2024

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:06:14 GMT

Our hearts are full, knowing this year's toy drive was a tremendous SUCCESS!!

We are absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity and support we received from our PHA community.

Your kindness of donations will make the holiday season brigher for so many children battling cancer, rare blood diseases and financial hardship.

Together, we spread love and cheer one toy at a time where it's needed most.

A heartfeld THANK YOU to everyone who generously contributed.

Underage Drinking

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:01:15 GMT

Pediatric Healthcare Associates is so happy to partner with the Fairfield Police Department to support a healthy community.

You can read the press release on underage drinking and consumption in the Fairfield community here .

Thanksgiving Meal Assembly

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:58:08 GMT

PHA was out in the community today helping Al's Angels assemble Thanksgiving meals for our neighbors in need.

We had a blast participating in this beautiful experience of paying it forward.

Hartford Healthcare Medical Mission

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:49:16 GMT

Dr. Marivic Botta and Dr. Rick Freedman were in the community today.

They provided care to pediatric patients at Cesar A. Batalla School in Bridgeport, in the true spirit of the PHA mission!

Meet the Newest Addition to our PHA Family!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:46:24 GMT

We are thrilled to introduce the newest addition to our PHA medical team, Jessica Gonzalez, MS, PA-C!

Jessica will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Hawley Lane office . We're excited for you to meet her, because we know you're going to love her!

Vaccines

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:43:31 GMT

What you need to know about Flu, COVID-19 and RSV Vaccines.

School Supply Drive 2024

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:40:53 GMT

Thank you for your support in donating supplies during our School Supply Drive, especially Dr. Susanna Jalkut, one of our PHA pediatricians for donating 30 backpacks! With your support, we collected and filled 80 backpacks with supplies!! The backpacks were distributed by United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut to Make the Road Connecticut , a Bridgeport non-profit organization. We appreciate the kindness and outpouring of support of everyone who participated in our annual drive. Your contributions have helped local children be prepared for school. Thank you again for helping us make a positive difference in our local community.

Our Family Continues to Grow!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:37:19 GMT

We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of our awesome medical team. Please help us welcome Katie Kendall, APRN!

Katie will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Fairfield office . We're so excited for you to meet her!

Update on our Summer Hours

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:34:56 GMT

Please note our NEW FRIDAY NIGHT ONLY Summer Hours
(Effective: June 7th to August 30th)
8:00am to 6:00pm

Monday - Thursday hours will remain the same.

Baby Book Drive 2024

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:33:07 GMT

WOW! Our Baby Book Drive was enormously successful. Together we collected 1,034 books!! Thank you to everyone who donated. Your generosity and support for early literacy will make a positive impact on so many children's future academic growth. United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut is distributing the books to low-income families in the greater Bridgeport community and Fairfield County.

Meet the Newest Addition to our PHA Family!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:28:56 GMT

We are so excited to introduce the newest addition to our PHA medical team, Sarah Donahue, MSN, APRN, C-PNP !

Sarah will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Hawley Lane office . We can't wa it for you to meet her, because we know you're going to love her!

Baby Book Drive

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:27:03 GMT

Why is this important? Because...

We are hosting a Baby Book Drive from March 8th to March 28th .

NEW & GENTLY USED Baby Books for ages birth to three.

Books can be dropped off in any of our 4 offices or you can select a book from the Amazon Wishlist here .

All books will be donated to United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut who will distribute them to low-income families in Fairfield County.

2/3 of low-income families have no age-appropriate books in their homes.
Reading proficiency is the #1 predictor of school success.
Lack of reading proficiency puts kids on the dropout track. They are 4x more likely to leave high school wihtout a diploma if not reading on grade level in Third Grade.
Every child who doesn't graduate high school costs the individual, the family, and our society. The price is paid by all of us: $260K per person in lost earnings, taxes, productivity, and global competetiveness.

Together, we can positively impact a child's future academic growth and job attainment.

Self-Scheduling

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:25:05 GMT

Self-Scheduling is now available for Sick Patients Monday - Friday!

What you need to know for Self-Scheduling:

Must be an existing PHA patient.
Must be over 3 months old.
Duration of symptoms must be less than 2 weeks.
Limited symptoms: congestion, cough, diarrhea, ear pain, fever, sore throat and vomiting

Click here to schedule a sick visit for your child.

Castle Connolly Top Docs 2024

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:23:10 GMT

We are proud to announce that 17 PHA physicians have earned recognition on the presitgious Castle Connolly Top Docs 2024 list!

CONGRATULATIONS to:

Dr. Marivic Botta - Pediatrics
Dr. Sean Butler - Pediatrics
Dr. Nimrod Dayan - Pediatrics & Infectious Diseases
Dr. Patricia Eagan - Pediatrics
Dr. Rick Freedman - Pediatrics
Dr. Andrea Hagani - Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Homa - Pediatrics
Dr. Susanna Jalkut - Pediatrics
Dr. Maggie Kissel - Pediatrics
Dr. Robert Landis - Pediatrics
Dr. Neysa McDonald - Pediatrics
Dr. Alicja Moczerniuk - Pediatrics
Dr. Amanda Murphy - Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Odinak - Pediatrics
Dr. Corrie Steeves - Pediatrics
Dr. Sonja Vindheim - Pediatrics
Dr. Amy Weinrib - Pediatrics

Our PHA Family Continues to Grow!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:12:47 GMT

We are excited to announce the newest member of our amazing PHA medical team. Please give a warm welcome to Dr. Mary Garibaldi!

Dr. Garibaldi will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Hawley Lane office . We can't wait for you to meet her!!

NEW Medicaid Patients

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:11:29 GMT

We are currently NOT accepting NEW Medicaid patients at this time.

Toy Drive 2023

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:10:15 GMT

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Our Toy Drive was another HUGE success again this year! Thank you to everyone who donated. All of the toys were given to Al's Angels who will distribute them to children with cancer, rare blood diseases and financial hardship.

School Supply Drive 2023

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:03:45 GMT

Thank you to everyone who donated to our School Supply Drive. With your help we filled 47 backpacks with needed supplies!! Dr. Hagani and Dr. Dayan presented the backpacks to United Way of Coastal and Western County who will distribute them to kids in Bridgeport most in need. Through your generous donations, students can now attend their 1st day of school ready to succeed.

Our Family continues to Grow!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:30 GMT

We are thrilled to introduce the newest member of our amazing PHA medical team. Please help us welcome Dr. Cole Papakyrikos!

Dr. Cole will be seeing general pediatric and sports medicine patients in our Hawley Lane office . We can't wait for you to meet him!

Tribute to Jay Gergler

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:55:27 GMT

Farewell to a friend...

Our PHA family is saddened to announce the sudden passing of one of our own, Jay Gergler. Jay was our IT manager and systems administrator over the last nine years. During his time with us he supported and navigated PHA through the ever-changing world of information systems, technology and telecommunications with foresight, professionalism, and expertise. While we will always remember Jay for his technical abilities, we will never forget the true gentleness, warmth, and kindness of the man, a quiet and gentle giant who brightened our days with his humor and calm resolve.

Farwell dear friend, it's hard to say goodbye when all the birds are singing in the sky.

Meet the Newest Addition to Our PHA Family!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:52:06 GMT

We are so excited to introduce the newest addition to our PHA medical team, Dr. Kathryn McVicar!

Dr. McVicar is an experienced and dedicated Pediatric Neurologist who will be seeing PHA patients in our Fairfield and Stratford offices. We can't wait for you to meet her!

Face Masks are Optional at PHA

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:50:07 GMT

Beginning May 1, 2023

Face Masks are Optional at PHA (however, masks continue to be highly recommended

THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE:

COVID exposed patients
COVID positi ve patients - through day 10 from positive test date

Dr. Charles Woods

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:47:40 GMT

It is with great sadness that the clinicians and staff at Pediatric Healthcare Associates mourn the passing of one of our founder physicians, Charles Woods, MD on December 28, 2022.

He was a beloved pediatrician who had great impact on thousands of children and families he cared for over the years.

His commitment, passion, humor, and warmth were infectious. Dr. Woods will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

COVID-19 Vaccines

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:42:00 GMT

COVID-19 Vaccines are recommended for children 6 months and up.

More information on staying up-to-date with COVID-19 Vaccines & Boosters is available on:

PHA Website
CDC Website

You can find locations near you to get you, or your child the COVID-19 vaccines at Vaccines.gov Website

Routine Annual Checkups

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:58:41 GMT

Hold-off on scheduling those Routine Annual Checkups!

We are working as hard as we can to accommodate the dramatic increase in sick children who need immediate care.
Please help us to do that by following the guidelines below for annual checkups.

If your child will be due for a routine Well Exam (annual checkup), during the months of January, February or March and does not fall into one of the age group categories below, please postpone calling us to schedule that appointment.

We are going to see less Well Exam visits in the months of January, February and March in an effort to accommodate the surge in sick children who need immediate care.

During January through March, we will schedule Well Exams only for the following ages:

0 - 4 years old
11 years old
16 years old

We really appreciate your understanding and patience at this time.

Our Family continues to Grow!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:53:30 GMT

We are excited to announce Jacqueline Gambeski, APRN is the newest member to join our incredible medical team!

Jacqueline will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Fairfield Center office . We can't wait for you to meet because we know you will love her!

Our Family is Growing

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:43:55 GMT

We are excited to announce Dr. Seun Adekanye has joined our medical team at PHA.

He will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Hawley Lane & Shelton offices. We can't wait for you to meet me because we know you're going to love him!

Online Bill Payment

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:27:23 GMT

We are pleased to offer a secure and convenient online bill payment system to our patients. We accept all major credit and debit cards. To make a payment, simply click here

Newest Addition to our PHA Family

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:22:16 GMT

We are excited to announce Dr. Sneha Butala has joined our amazing medical team at PHA!

She will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Hawley Lane office . We can't wait for you to meet her!

Back to School Supply Drive 2022

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:16:00 GMT

Thank you to everyone who donated supplies to our Back to School Supply Drive. We greatly appreciate your support!

Our doctors helped fill each backpack with supplies before giving them to the United Way of Coastal Fairfield County who distributed them to local families in Bridgeport.

Together we helped brighten the school year for kids struggling to have the resources they need for a great start to a successful school year.

Mobile Registration

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:09:57 GMT

We are excited to announce that we are now offering mobile registration before your appointment! Phreesia's Mobile Registration allows you to check-in on your own device using a link sent to you by us in an email or text message, prior to your visit. It will also allow you to complete health questions and screeners that are useful to your visit, update demographics and pay your co-pay.

CT Magazine Top Docs 2022

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:08:28 GMT

We're proud to announce CT Magazine has named 15 of our physicians to the 2022 Top Doctors List!

Dr. Marivic Botta - Pediatrics
Dr. Sean Butler - Pediatrics
Dr. Nimrod Dayan - Pediatric Infectious Disease
Dr. Patty Eagan - Pediatrics
Dr. Rick Freedman - Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Homa - Pediatrics
Dr. Susanna Jalkut - Pediatrics
Dr. Robert Landis - Pediatrics
Dr. Neysa McDonald - Pediatrics
Dr. Alicja Dewera-Moczerniuk - Pediatrics
Dr. Amanda Rodriguez-Murphy - Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Odinak - Pediatrics
Dr. Corrie Steeves - Pediatrics
Dr. Sonja Vindheim - Pediatrics
Dr. Amy Weinrib - Pediatrics

Our Family continues to Grow!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:58:42 GMT

Please help us welcome our new Nurse Practitioner, Adeline Shaughnessy, APRN!

Adeline will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Fairfield Center & Hawley Lane offices. We can't wait for you to meet her!

Castle Connolly Top Docs 2022

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:50:28 GMT

Congratulations to our Castle Connolly Top Doctors of 2022! This distinction is awarded to the top 7% of US Board Certified Physicians.

Dr. Marivic Botta - Pediatrics
Dr. Sean Butler - Pediatrics
Dr. Robert Chessin - Pediatrics
Dr. Nimrod Dayan - Pediatrics & Infectious Diseases
Dr. Patricia Eagan - Pediatrics
Dr. Rick Freedman - Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Homa - Pediatrics
Dr. Susanna Jalkut - Pediatrics
Dr. Robert Landis - Pediatrics
Dr. Neysa McDonald - Pediatrics
Dr. Alicja Moczerniuk - Pediatrics
Dr. Amanda Murphy - Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Odinak - Pediatrics
Dr. Corrie Steeves - Pediatrics
Dr. Sonja Vindehim - Pediatrics
Dr. Amy Weinrib - Pediatrics

Farewell Commerce Park

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:37:09 GMT

Farewell Commerce Park

Telemedicine Visits

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:33:59 GMT

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Effective March 1, 2022

We will ONLY be allowed to provide Telemedicine Services to our patients who are physically in Connecticut at the time of visit.

There were emergency orders during COVID that allowed us to provide Telemedicne Care to patients out-of-state, however, those orders have or are expiring.

Regardless of physical location, we will always do our best to provide ongoing and coordinated care for all our patients,

National Women Physicians Day

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:31:23 GMT

Today is National Women Physicians Day and we have some of the BEST at PHA!

COVID-19 Quarantine Vs. Isolation

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:22:30 GMT

This helpful fact sheet explains the difference between COVID-19 Quarantine vs Isolation.

Wishing Dr. Robert Hobbie a Happy Retirement

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:20:01 GMT

After 50 years of dedicated and compassionate service, Dr. Robert Hobbie has decided to hang up his stethoscope and retire.We are all incredibly grateful for his tireless dedication in providing care for thousands of children, treating their illnesses, and keeping them healthy.Dr. Hobbie, be proud of the work you have done, the person you are, and the difference you have made. We wish you health and happiness as you begin a new journey in life and know you will be deeply missed by everyone at PHA.

Our Family is Growing!

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:19:58 GMT

Please help us welcome our new Nurse Practitioner, Deanna Rosa, APRN, FNP . We are excited she join our medical team at PHA and can’t wait for you to meet her!

Deanna Rosa will be seeing general pediatric patients in our Shelton office .

COVID Related Health Matters

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:10:20 GMT

Dear PHA patient and family,

It has come to our attention that misinformation is circulating in the community regarding Pediatric Healthcare Associates’ (PHA) position on COVID related health matters. Today, we are sharing with you PHA’s official position on those matters.

PHA has always followed the guidance from the CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and State and local health departments on all COVID related issues, including vaccination and masking recommendations for young adults, adolescents, and children. Statements or information contrary to these guidelines do not represent PHA’s practice-wide standards and are not supported by our group. All our doctors, advanced practice providers and healthcare team are required to always comply with the PHA practice-wide standards.

In terms of:

COVID-19 vaccination for children in eligible age groups:

The CDC, AAP and DPH currently recommend that all eligible individuals should receive the COVID-19 vaccine. PHA supports this recommendation and encourages all our eligible patients to be vaccinated. Our goal is to be able to administer the COVID vaccine, to eligible age groups, in our offices beginning this fall.

Mask wearing for unvaccinated children:

The CDC continues to discuss and debate the issue of mask wearing by children. The AAP recommends universal masking in school.
As pediatricians and members of the American Academy of Pediatrics, PHA supports and endorses the AAP’s position of mask wearing in school.

As a pediatric practice in this community for over 60 years, with strong roots and investment in our community, our mission is, and will always be, to provide “patient-centered, evidence-based, quality care for our patients, from infancy through young adulthood, through compassion, collaboration, and open communication with their families and our community.”

For more details on the AAP’s guidance, please click here .

With respect and regards,

Andrea Hagani, MD, FAAP
President & CEO
Nimrod Dayan, MD, FAAP
Chief Medical Officer
Karen Michaels
Chief Operations Officer

…and the entire PHA Healthcare Team

CT Magazine Top Docs 2021

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:23:18 GMT

We are very proud to announce Connecticut Magazine has named 9 of our physicians to the 2021 Best Docs List!!

Dr. Marivic Botta – Pediat rics
Dr. Robert Chessin – Pediatrics
Dr. Nimrod Dayan – Pediatrics & Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Dr. Patty Eagan – Pediatrics & Pediatric Endocrinology
Dr. Rick Freedman – Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Homa – Pediatrics
Dr. Susanna Jalkut – Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Odinak – Pediatrics
Dr. Amy Weinrib – Pediatrics

For the complete list of CT Magazines 2021 Top Docs

Camp, School & Sport Forms

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:06:10 GMT

Camp, School & Sport Forms

In order to help us complete your form requests accurately and in a timely fashion. We are asking for your help and cooperation regarding the following policies:

Complete all demographic and non-medical information prior to dropping off the form.
Bring form to your home office.
Be aware of form completion deadlines set by your camp, school or sport organization.
Allow one week for your form to be completed.
A $5 fee will be charged for any forms from an organization that won’t accept the State of CT blue form.
There will be a $25 rush fee charge for any forms that need to be completed and picked up within 2 weekdays.
Please remember to wear a mask in our office.

As always, we appreciate your help and understanding and thank you for allowing us to care for your child(ren).

Importance of getting vaccinated

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 16:03:58 GMT

PHA’s favorite Infectious Disease Doctor, Dr. Dayan, was interviewed by Channel 12 News to discuss the importance of everyone, including children, receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

Click here to watch the interview.

COVID-19 Vaccine

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:59:25 GMT

PHA recommends that all who are eligible be vaccinated as soon as possible.

We follow the recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) . This helpful handout prepares you for what to expect after getting the Covid-19 Vaccine.

This helpful handout prepares you for what to expect after getting the Covid-19 Vaccine:

Dr. Dayan is our new CMO!

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:56:03 GMT

Please join us to congratulate Dr. Nimrod Dayan as our new Chief Medical Officer!

Board Certified:

General Pediatrics
Pediatric Infectious Disease

Offering:

General Pediatric Care
Travel Medicine Consults

“As a kid, I wanted to be a superhero, a Jedi- someone who can make a difference in the world. So I became a doctor, a pediatrician, a pediatric infectious disease doctor – to battle against enemies invisible to the naked eye, things that may harm the most vulnerable amongst us. It’s my honor and privilege to serve my community.”

Reach Out Connecticut

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:47:40 GMT

Reach Out Connecticut is a free emotional support line for all CT residents in English and Spanish to use when they are feeling stressed, lonely, overwhelmed, need resources, or just someone to talk to. The pandemic isn’t over and many individuals in our community are still struggling with social isolation, the loss of loved ones, illness, or just missing life pre-Covid.

Top Docs 2021

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:04:27 GMT

We’re excited to announce PHA docs have once again been voted America’s TOP DOCTORS in Pediatrics, Pediatric Endocrinology and Pediatric Infectious Disease!

Dr. Marivic Botta – General Pediatrics
Dr. Robert Chessin – General Pediatrics
Dr. Nimrod Dayan – General Pediatrics & Pediatric Infectious Disease
Dr. Patty Eagan – General Pediatrics & Pediatric Endocrinology
Dr. Rick Freedman – General Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Homa – General Pediatrics
Dr. Susanna Jalkut – General Pediatrics
Dr. Neysa McDonald – General Pediatrics
Dr. Tom Odinak – General Pediatrics
Dr. Mary Sarrantonio – Pediatric Endocrinology
Dr. Amy Weinrib – General Pediatrics

Tribute to JoAnn Wells

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:29:43 GMT

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of JoAnn Wells.

JoAnn was a strong-willed, fiercely independent woman whose commitment, integrity, and steady leadership supported our organization in countless ways. She was the steady force behind so much of our daily work and a cherished colleague and friend who brought conviction, loyalty and heart to everything she did.

She was deeply loved and profoundly respected and her impact on PHA, and on all of us, will endure.

Castle Connolly Top Doctors 2026

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 15:27:45 GMT

Congratulations to our Castle Connolly 2026 Top Doctors!

We are incredibly proud to share that 14 doctors from Pediatric Healthcare Associates have been recognized among the best in their field. This prestigious distinction is awareded based on peer nominations and a rigorous selection process, honoring the top 7% of practicing physicians nationwide.

Being recognized by fellow physicians is a meaningful testament to the exceptional clinical expertise, dedication, and compassionate care our doctors deliver every day. We are honored to have such outstanding professionals on our team and grateful to the families who entrust us with their children's care.

Coming Soon - New Trumbull Office

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:24:31 GMT

We're excited to announce that our Trumbull office is relocating to a brand-new, stand-alone building designed just for our PHA patients!

In February 2025, we proudly broke ground on our new Trumbull location at 6600 Main Street. From the very beginning, our goal was to create a space with easy access, thoughtfully designed with a playful, kid-friendly feel, and filled with the same caring, trusted team you know from our current Trumbull office. Stay tuned for more information...

Phase 1: Groundbreaking & Early Stages

Phase 2: The Foundation & Framing

Phase 3: Behind the Walls (Infrastructure)

Tommy Fund Check Presentation

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:11:48 GMT

On Thursday, January 15, 2026, we were honored to present Michele Krasznai, Assistant Director of the Tommy Fund for Childhood Cancer with a check for $2,110.00. This incredible donation was made possible by the generosity and support of our community in honor of two extraordinary Tommy Fund Ambassadors - Frankie Williston and Gracie Adekanye.

Frankie attended the presentation alongside her parents, proudly representing the Tommy Fund and the strength and resilience of children fighting childhood cancer. Joining her were Gracie and her parents, who were also invited to celebrate this special moment. Gracie is not only a Tommy Fund Ambassador, but also the organization's highest individual fundraiser - an amazing accomplishment.

It was truly a meaningful afternoon as we came together to recognize the dedication, impact, and inspiring spirit of both Frankie and Gracie, along with the incredible support of their families and the Tommy Fund community.

Childhood Vaccines

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:06:16 GMT

Ask the Pediatrician: What is the difference between the AAP immunization recommendations and other vaccine schedules?

You may have heard that federal health officials recently cut the number of recommended childhood vaccines. The decision was not based on any new scientific evidence and broke from the careful review process that has helped keep U.S. kids healthy for decades. Pediatrician and infectious diseases specialist Dr. Sean O'Leary discusses what changed, why it matters and what the AAP recommends families should do. Click here to read the article .

Congratulations to Amanda Rodriguez-Murphy!

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:00:42 GMT

We're proud to share that Dr. Rodriguez-Murphy , one of our pediatricians at PHA, has been honored by the Greater Bridgeport Medical Association with the 2026 Distinguished Medical Leadership Award in Pediatrics.

This prestigious award recognizes her exceptional dedication to children's health, clinical excellence, and leadership in the pediatric community. Dr. Rodriguez-Murphy received the award on January 14, 2026, and is also a valued member of the Fairfield County Medical Association.

Toy Drive 2025

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:46:59 GMT

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Our hearts are overflowing as we celebrate the incredible success of this year's toy drive - together, we collected more than 500 toys!

We are beyond grateful for the outpouring of kindness and generosity from our amazing PHA community. Each donation represents love, compassion, and hope, and will help make the holiday season brighter for children facing cancer, rare blood disorders, and financial hardship.

Because of you, smiles will be shared, spirits will be lifted, and a little extra joy will reach the families who need it most. Together, we truly made a difference - one toy, one smile, and one heartfelt moment at a time.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who gave so generously and helped spread so much holiday cheer.

Important Measles Information for Parents

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:44:32 GMT

Please click here to watch a PSA on our Facebook from Dr. Hagani and Dr. Dayan regarding the recent news on measles.

There has been a confirmed case of measles in our area. We have information to share with you about measles and when to seek medical care.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when someone with measles coughs or sneezes. We want to share this information because a confirmed case has recently been reported in a Trumbull School.

What Is Measles?

Measles is a serious illness caused by a virus. Symptoms usually apprear 8-12 days after exposure , but can take up to 21 days.

Early symptoms include:

Fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red eyes

Later symptom:

A red, blotchy rash that starts on the face and moves down the body.

A person with measles is contagious from 4 days before the rash until 4 days after it appears.

If You Suspect Your Child Has Measles

Call us first . Do not come to the office without calling. Tell us about any possible exposure.
Keep your child home and away from others to stop the spread.
If you must go to urgent care or the ER , call before arriving so they can prepare safely.

Prevention

MMR vaccine: Two doses offer strong protection against measles.
Check your child's immunization records and contact us if they are not up to date.

Higher-risk groups include infants under 1-year, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system.

Before Calling Our Office

If you have general questions about measles, vaccines, or the current situation, please visit our website.
Also, please review our Public Service Announcement (PSA) that will be posted on December 12, 2025 , which will provide additional guidance.

If you still have concerns after reviewing these resources, we are here to help.

Sincerely,
Your Care Team at Pediatric Healthcare Associates

Thanksgiving Meal Assembly

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:41:12 GMT

Team PHA was out in the community this past Saturday, November 15th, at the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheatre, proudly volunteering at the annual Thanksgiving Meal Assembly.

Together, we helped pack 1,250 meal bins for local families - and this year felt especially meaningful. With recent SNAP benefit disruptions impacting so many, it was even more important to show up for our neighbors in need.

We're truly grateful for the opportunity to give back and support our community.

Virtual Food Drive

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:34:55 GMT

We're raising funds for Connecticut Foodshare , the food bank serving communities across our entire state.

Now through Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

You can make a real impact by donating today. The process is quick, easy, and secure - and every dollar helps provide food and hope to our Connecticut neighbors in need.

Let's rally together and make a difference for Connecticut families!

Make a donation here!

Hartford Healthcare Medical Mission

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:26:57 GMT

On Saturday, November 8, 2025, Hartford Healthcare's Medical Mission took place across seven locations throughout Connecticut.

Thousands of volunteers came together - including our very own Dr. Botta and Dr. Moczerniuk to provide free health services, screenings, and essential necessities to neighbors in need.

We're so proud to be part of this incredible effort to support our community.

LifeBridge Community Services

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:26:54 GMT

PHA has partnered with LifeBridge Community Services to enhance access to behavioral counseling for our patients.

For more than 175 years, LifeBridge Community Services has been a trusted resource for children, youth, and families throughout Greater Bridgeport - helping them build stronger, healthier futures. LifeBridge's compassionate team of licensed clinicians provides age-appropriate counseling and support to help young people manage stress, strengthen coping skills, and develop resilience at home, in school, and in their communities.

As a community-based nonprofit behavioral health provider, LifeBridge delivers high-quality counseling and supportive services that help families, heal, grow, and thrive. Visit lifebridgect.org to learn more.

Congratulations, Dr. Rick Freedman!

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 14:14:42 GMT

We're proud to share that Dr. Freedman was honored at the Fairfield County Medical Association Award Ceremony on October 9, 2025 , celebrating an incredible 50 years in medical practice!

Dr. Freedman's dedication, compassion, and commitment to children and families have touched countless lives throughout his career. Congratulations, Dr. Freedman!

Support kids like Frankie!

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 14:10:17 GMT

This is Frankie, the daughter of one of our team members, Josh.
On January, 9, 2024, Frankie was diagnosed with Leukemia.
Today, we are grateful to share that she is in remission and recently started preschool

Please consider making a donation to the Tommy Fund.
Your support makes a difference!
Every donation helps the Tommy Fund continue programs that bring hope, smiles, and opportunities to local children and their families impacted by cancer.

Make a donation to the Tommy Fund by clicking here.

Welcome the Newest Member of our Medical Team!

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 14:06:18 GMT

We're excited to welcome Mary Briggs, APRN to the PHA medical team!

Mary will be providing care for our general pediatric patients in our Fairfield office .

We look forward to the positive impact she will have on our patients and families.

Our Team is Expanding to Better Serve You!

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 14:03:29 GMT

We are pleased to welcome Amanda Nederlof, APRN to our medical team.

Amanda will be providing care for general pediatric patients in both our Trumbull and Hawley Lane offices.

We are confident she will be a valuable addition to our practice and look forward to the exceptional care she will provide our patients.

Teddy Bear Clinic

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:00:25 GMT

This past Saturday, our PHA Partners, Dr. Hagani and Dr. Botta, traded their white coats for "teddy doc" hats at the Bridgeport Green Festival! In partnership with Bridgeport Hospital's Pediatric Department, they hosted a Teddy Bear Clinic where children became doctors for the day - carefully examing stuffed animal patients, diagnosing pretend sniffles and sprains, and learning how checkups keep us all healthy.

The clinic was filled with smiles, laughter, and plenty of "beary" healthy bears heading home. To make the day even more special, our beloved retired PHA clinician, Dr. Hemenway, made a surprise appearance to join in the fun!

We're proud to partner with our community to make healthcare approachable for kids - and to show them a doctor's visit doesn't have to be scary.

Our Team is Growing!

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 13:53:27 GMT

We are excited to welcome Jackie Basile APRN to the PHA medical team!

Jackie will be caring for general pediatric patients at our Shelton office . We're confident you'll love getting to know her, and we can't wait for you to meet her!

LivFree Movie Night

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 13:51:35 GMT

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table on Saturday at the LivFree Movie Night! Dr. Botta, Dr. Citarella, and Dominique Harper, PA loved seeing so many of our patients and meeting new families too. Kids were lined up to test their nutrition knowledge and fitness skills - it was such a fun night!

LivFree's mission is to bring hope and joy to kids and families fighting pediatric cancer, and we were thrilled to be a part of such a meaningful event.