Peter Vaccaro, MD

When I was in my teens and early 20s, I lost my brother and parents to cancer. I interacted with a lot of doctors, and I found many of them to be cold. I remember thinking I wanted to become a doctor who would be empathetic. I chose pediatrics because it is a happy medical specialty, and I love kids. They still amaze me after many years of caring for them.

I care for children from birth to age 18. My role is to guide parents through the many minor but concerning illnesses of childhood. I manage colds and the flu, as well as chronic conditions, such as asthma, allergies, and diabetes.

I provide information about child development at every visit and try to allay new parents’ fears about symptoms like fever. I offer reassurance about breastfeeding and counsel families about healthy eating.

I offer vaccinations and screen patients for depression and anxiety. When necessary, I refer them to a psychiatrist for treatment. I also care for children who have autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

My goal is to help prevent illness. For example, I monitor children’s cholesterol levels to help them avoid heart disease later in life.

I focus on providing high-quality care, so I make a point of spending time with my patients. I enjoy watching them grow up—I am currently caring for the children of my former patients.