The COVID-19 pandemic has presented new challenges in navigating parenthood. With schools across the country going online and limited social activities available for children, many parents are concerned about the potential long-term impacts of keeping their kids at home for long periods of time, and eventually returning to school. Dr. Marvi Montano-Ip, MD, a pediatrician with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group, shared common concerns from patient families and addressed ways parents can navigate these unprecedented challenges.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital resources have provided avenues of connection and learning for children. School, appointments, and friendships now take place in a virtual world. It's no different in health care where virtual visits have also enabled physicians to continue to see patients. 

Karl Zeff, MD, a psychiatrist with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group’s behavioral health program, was delighted to find that virtual visits have enhanced behavioral health visits with his patients.

Families across the country are adapting to a new in-home routine to keep themselves and others safe during this unprecedented time. As many are facing adjusted school and work days, Dr. Kimberly Hart, a pediatrician with Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group in Citrus Heights, is sharing tips to help keep kids active and engaged indoors.

National Women Physicians Day on February 3rd commemorates the birthday of Elizabeth Blackwell, MD, the first woman in the United States to become a doctor. As we reflect on and celebrate the achievements of women in medicine, we asked our providers to share what inspired them to choose a career in healing and humankindness. Here is what they said.

Dignity Health Medical Group has announced that they have expanded their pediatric services in Aptos with the addition of longtime Aptos residents and highly-regarded pediatricians Cory Parello, MD and Jill Parello, MD. They will also be joined by Dignity Health Medical Group pediatrician Stephanie Graziani, DO to offer expanded pediatric access and services to the community at 105 Post Office Drive, Ste F. in Aptos.