In fast-growing communities like Boerne, Fair Oaks, Leon Springs, and The Dominion, families are looking for trusted healthcare providers who truly understand their children’s needs. At VIVA Pediatrics, that kind of care is a calling. We spoke with Dr. Veronica Zamora-Campos, a seasoned pediatrician with nearly 30 years of experience, to talk about her path to pediatrics and some of the best ways to help our kids thrive.
(Responses edited for length and clarity)
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Why did you decide to become a pediatrician?
I’ve always wanted to be a physician, but in medical school, I realized I could have the greatest impact by starting at the beginning of life. I grew up without a pediatrician, and my parents didn’t have guidance on things like nutrition, reading habits, or even what drinks were best. During my rotations, I connected easily with families and loved the challenge of working with children, who don’t always say what’s wrong. Their bodies are always changing, so it keeps me thinking and learning. My hematology-oncology rotation showed me how resilient kids are. They would be getting chemo and still find ways to play and smile. I knew then: pediatrics was my calling. I knew that I wanted to be there for families, whether their children were sick or healthy. Almost 30 years later, I would do it all over again.
How are pediatricians different?
Pediatricians are specially trained in the health and well-being of newborns through adolescence. At VIVA Pediatrics, our board-certified providers stay current with continuing education, ongoing peer collaboration, and quarterly board reviews. We offer continuity of care in a kid-friendly environment, with staff trained to support children of all ages, from infancy through the teen years. We manage illnesses using the least invasive approach and the least amount of medication necessary. We track development closely at well checks and guide families on nutrition, safety, screen time, and behavior.
Vaccines are also a vital part of prevention. I’ll never forget a 13-year-old patient I cared for during residency who died from meningococcal meningitis just days after her birthday. That vaccine didn’t exist then. It does now.
Kids aren’t just small adults, and they need providers who understand that. They need to feel comfortable with their medical provider and develop a relationship for when those difficult-to-ask questions arise.
What is one of the biggest challenges parents face today?
The cost of care. Insurance changes often delay needed visits or follow-ups. At VIVA, we accept a wide variety of insurance plans and offer payment options for self-pay patients. Most well visits are covered at 100%, and if vaccines aren’t covered, we use the Vaccines for Children program to help. We’re working to expand hours, and we offer same-day and after-school appointments, walk-ins, and extended visits when parents have more than one concern. We really try to remove barriers, because we know how busy families are.
Which factors are essential for parents to consider when choosing a pediatrician?
Look for someone who listens and communicates well—someone your child connects with and feels comfortable around. Check for board certification. Referrals are helpful, but I always say to pay attention to the staff, too, because they reflect the practice.
The relationship with your pediatrician can last for years. I’m seeing second-generation patients now. You want someone who’s in it for the long haul. It should feel like a partnership, not just a quick visit. You want to feel like you can ask anything without judgment.
What encouragement do you have for parents as they take care of their kids?
Trust your instincts and talk to your pediatrician. Keep up with well-checks. Limit screen time; it affects vision, posture, sleep, attention, and more. Read together starting at six months. Eat dinner together—with no phones. Know your neighbors. Teach your child your name and phone number before kindergarten. Help teens stay aware of their surroundings, not just their screens. Encourage play, curiosity, and sleep. And always, always use sunscreen. It’s always sunscreen season in Texas!
I’m proud of the families in our community. They’re doing a great job, and it shows. Keep it up!