In 2019, I was honored to attend the groundbreaking of what would become Phoenix Children's Pediatrics East Valley. Just 3 short years later, Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics has 11 primary care locations, seven of which are located in the East Valley. Pediatricians at these locations can collaborate with specialists throughout Phoenix Children’s health system while providing the highest quality of care to children and adolescents in their local community.
Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics offers services for children and adolescents including wellness exams and health screenings, specialized services for prenatal and newborn babies, and treatment for illness and injury.
I am excited to introduce you to two amazing pediatricians that not only work with our little miracles each day, but also call Gilbert home:
Priya Patel, MD – Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics – Gilbert
As a pediatrician, Priya Patel, MD, builds trusting relationships with patients and families. She advocates for her patients and provides high-quality care. A desire to be close to family brought Dr. Patel to Phoenix Children's Pediatrics. However, what inspires her to stay is carrying out the organization's mission: “to provide hope, healing and the best healthcare for children and families”.
Do you have a WHY for your choice to become a pediatrician? And what is it?
I was inspired to become a doctor during a trip with my parents to India. I was shocked to see so many sick, underfed children who needed medical care but were not able to get it. At that moment, I realized that I wanted to be a part of the solution. Food, shelter and proper care should be available to all. I believe that people like myself, who are fortunate enough to obtain an education and have resources, should strive to make the world better.
What is your number 1 tip for keeping your kids healthy in 2023?
Encourage children to consume a variety of different foods, especially nutrient-dense foods. Core foods include vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy and protein. These foods help provide essential vitamins and minerals. This also helps prevent constipation and obesity, two very common issues that many children face.
What is ONE surprising thing your patients would not guess about you?
I love designing Indian clothing. I had a four-day Indian wedding and designed all my outfits for each event.
Meghan Hunter, DO – Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics 1501
Indiana native Meghan E. Hunter, DO, earned her medical degree at Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Indianapolis. She completed her pediatric residency at Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters in Norfolk, Virginia. Dr. Hunter felt a sense of home when she joined Phoenix Children's Pediatrics. She appreciates being part of a supportive community where she can provide evidence-based, individualized patient care. “My goal is to provide my patients and their families the highest-quality care and serve as a role model for kids in the community”, Dr. Hunter says.
Do you have a WHY for your choice to become a pediatrician? And what is it?
I honestly knew I wanted to be a pediatrician when I was 8 years old. I don’t really have a “moment” when I knew this is what I wanted to do. It’s like pediatrics has been a part of me for my whole life. I think I’ve always loved helping kids, and I’ve always liked science, so when I went to medical school, pediatrics was the obvious choice for me. Kids are just so fun and resilient. I love forming meaningful relationships with people and that is such an important part of being a pediatrician, so that was a big draw for me, as well.
What is your number 1 tip for keeping your kids healthy in 2023?
Stay home if you are sick! It’s simple, but I can’t stress this enough.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
My biggest goal for 2023 is to be more present and to find joy in the little things. I’m not a huge New Year’s resolution person, but every year I decide on a word of the year. For 2023, my word of the year is “Joy.” To me, that means finding small things to be happy about every day, celebrating everyday things just for fun, and not taking things too seriously when they don’t have to be.
Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics will continue to expand its services throughout the Valley. Visit phoenixchildrenspediatrics.org for more information or to find a location near you.
I don’t really have a “moment” when I knew this is what I wanted to do. It’s like pediatrics has been a part of me for my whole life__Meghan Hunter, MD
