WELCOME TO PHCA
Tampa Bay’s Standard of Pediatric Excellence
A child is not considered an established patient until they have been seen for a Well Visit or a Sick Visit by one of our providers. To ensure the most appropriate and effective care for your child, it’s important that we first review their health history and complete an in-person physical exam before starting treatment or giving any medical advice.
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As a new parent, there’s a lot on your mind right now, but there are steps you need to take to ensure your newborn is covered under your health plan. Adding your child to your insurance plan within 30 days ensures that your child is covered and prevents you from becoming responsible for any outstanding balances.
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A new baby brings both joy and change to a family. While you're likely feeling excited, it's completely normal to feel a bit anxious about how your older children will respond to the new arrival.
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As your baby grows and heals in the intermediate care nursery, you’ll have many responsibilities to manage. At times, it may feel overwhelming—but take things one step at a time. Go slowly but try not to put things off. Preparing now allows you to channel some of your anxious energy into something productive and meaningful for your child’s future.
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Stocking your medicine cabinet can give you extra peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared to handle whatever comes your way—from tiny toenails to first fevers and stuffy noses. While there’s no one-size-fits-all list for a well-stocked cabinet, here’s a streamlined guide to the recommended essentials.
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Choosing the right pediatric practice for your child is one of the most important decisions you can make as a parent. At Pediatric Health Care Alliance, we are an independent physician-owned medical group and are proud to be certified as a Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) by the National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA). This prestigious certification sets us apart and ensures that your child receives the highest quality care.
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Expecting a baby? Choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While many practices may appear similar, who makes the final decision on medical issues matters more than you think. We are an independent certified medical home by NCQA.
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Skin-to-skin contact, or kangaroo care, helps newborns regulate temperature, heartbeat, and breathing while promoting bonding and breastfeeding. Originally developed for premature babies, it benefits all infants—even for just a few minutes daily. Both parents can participate by holding their baby against their chest. This practice provides comfort and calm, both in the hospital and at home.
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The first hour after birth is a sensitive period for bonding, as babies are alert and responsive. Early eye contact, touch, and sounds help lay the foundation for your relationship. However, bonding has no time limit. If you’re exhausted or your baby needs medical attention, don’t worry—love and connection will grow over time.
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As you unwrap your baby, you'll notice tiny fingers and toes, soft hair, and possibly dry skin or a bluish tint on their hands and feet. Their head may be slightly elongated with a soft spot (fontanelle), and some may have fine hair (lanugo) on their back. Take in these precious details—it’s the start of a beautiful journey.
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From the moment you find out you're pregnant, you'll start making decisions that will shape your child's entire life; like choosing their name. To give your newborn the healthiest start, it's important to choose a pediatrician who will care for your child from their first wellness visit through the teenage years. Here are some tips to help you find the right doctor.
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Welcoming your newborn into the world is truly a life-changing experience, filled with joy and excitement—but it can also come with a fair amount of anxiety, especially for first-time parents. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed, and it's okay to lean on support during those first few days.
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The baby’s arrival is just around the corner—are you ready? Do you have everything you need and checked off all the to-dos? This guide will walk you through everything you truly need to prepare before bringing your baby home.
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Explore which foods to avoid, how your baby is developing during these early weeks, and the safety of taking pain relievers. Additionally, this video will cover healthy weight gain, key precautions to keep you and your baby safe, and the most common symptoms you might experience. Let’s dive into this exciting journey together!
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Children growing up in an age where media is readily available face both opportunities and challenges in navigating social media and digital content. While technology can enhance learning and creativity, it is important to teach children how to have a healthy relationship with social media, focusing on balance, boundaries, and online safety. Encouraging open conversations about what they see online, setting screen time limits, and modeling mindful usage can help children develop a positive digital mindset. Parents can also introduce alternative activities that foster real-world interactions and skills. Here are some activities for skill-boosting with kids.
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Reading to your children unlocks a world of imagination and discovery, fostering their language skills and sparking a lifelong love for learning. Sharing stories together strengthens your bond and helps children develop empathy and critical thinking. It also builds their vocabulary, improves concentration, and sets the foundation for academic success. Here are some tips to engage your child in the magic of books.
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Knowing when to keep your child home from childcare is essential to prevent the spread of illness and ensure their well-being. If your child has a fever, persistent cough, or signs of contagious conditions like a rash or vomiting, it’s best to keep them home to rest and recover. Also, consider their mood and energy levels, if they seem unusually tired or irritable, they may need a day to recharge. Here is some advice to know when to keep your child home
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Choosing the right childcare is a significant decision that impacts both your child’s development and your family’s daily life. It’s important to consider factors like the location, cost, and hours of operation, as well as the care environment and the qualifications of the staff. Visiting potential facilities, asking questions, and observing interactions can give you valuable insight into the quality of care provided. Prioritizing a setting that aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values will ensure a positive experience for everyone. Here is some helpful information on choosing a childcare that is right for you.
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Healthy sleep is crucial for children as it supports their physical growth, brain development, and emotional well-being. During sleep, their bodies release growth hormones and consolidate learning, which are essential for overall development. Poor sleep can lead to issues such as weakened immunity, difficulty concentrating, and behavioral problems. Establishing a consistent sleep routine helps children feel secure and improves their ability to manage daily challenges. Here are some healthy sleep tips to ensure your child gets the rest they need.
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Two high-risk OBGYNs debunk 25 of the most common pregnancy myths, offering clarity on widely held misconceptions. They explained that pregnant women do not need to eat twice as much, there is no safe amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, and cocoa butter does not prevent stretch marks. They also emphasized that there is currently no food, supplement, or physical activity proven to help induce labor.
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