A native Clevelander, Dr. Larkin-Baker, second from left, enjoys exploring the citiy’s vibrant food, cultural and sports scene.
Urgent care pediatrician Dr. Lauren Larkin-Baker has known since high school that she wanted to become a physician. Inspired by her late father’s compassion and dedication as an elementary school volunteer, she has worked with children throughout her life, from being a camp counselor to promoting health awareness with inner-city youth.
“Children are incredibly resilient and joyful. I enjoy sharing laughter with babies and toddlers, building rapport with young children, and serving as a positive role model for adolescents,” she said. She also appreciates pediatrics for its intellectual challenge, requiring detective-like problem-solving to determine diagnoses and treatments.
Can you share a memorable moment that reinforced your passion for pediatrics?
During my training, I had the rewarding experience of following several patients as they grew from birth through their early years. It was especially fulfilling to see families bring multiple children to me as their pediatrician. When families asked me to continue as their pediatrician after a well-child check or nursery rotation, it reaffirmed my passion for pediatrics and my sense of purpose.
Dr. Larkin-Baker with her husband and 6-month-old son.
What do you think are the most important qualities for a pediatrician to have?
Patience and the ability to calm anxious and fussy patients, along with compassion and empathy. Additionally, strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential, as many of our young patients are unable to communicate their symptoms.
You will be working in Urgent Care in Beachwood and Boston Heights. What are some of your favorite activities or places to visit in Cleveland?
I love exploring Cleveland’s vibrant vegan food scene, with favorites like Squash the Beef and Foodhisattva. As a native Clevelander, I’m a dedicated sports fan, especially of the Cavs. I also enjoy the arts, and often attend shows at Playhouse Square. The last show I saw was Hamilton, and I look forward to Black Nativity each holiday season.
In her free time, Dr. Larkin-Baker enjoys traveling, line dancing, cooking vegan meals and playing the piano.
How do you engage with families to ensure they feel supported in their child’s health journey?
I encourage families to voice their concerns and ask questions, while actively validating their feelings and focusing on their primary concerns. By offering clear, straightforward explanations about medical conditions and treatments, and providing relevant resources and referrals, I help ensure that families feel supported and informed throughout their child’s health care journey.
Are there any specific health issues or topics you feel particularly passionate about?
I am passionate about preventive medicine, mental health and reproductive health. I believe in the importance of early screenings and education, particularly during childhood and adolescence, when mental health challenges can arise. I aim to support families in prioritizing mental health and provide guidance on reproductive health to prevent unintended pregnancies and STIs.
Dr. Larkin-Baker is passionate about preventive medicine, mental health and reproductive health. She believes in the importance of early screenings and education, particularly during childhood and adolescence, when mental health challenges can arise.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I love spending time with my husband, 6-month-old son, Langston, and my family. I enjoy traveling—my latest trip was to Costa Rica—relaxing with Netflix, line dancing, attending silent discos and singing karaoke. I also enjoy cooking vegan meals, playing the piano and indulging in spa days for self-care.
What’s one thing about yourself that most people don’t know?
I’m deaf in my right ear due to sensorineural hearing loss, which was diagnosed in school. This challenge shaped my perseverance, as I refused to let it define me, making it one of my greatest strengths.
What would you change about yourself if you could?
My tendency to be overly critical of myself as a perfectionist. While striving for excellence is important, I’ve learned that focusing on progress rather than perfection is more effective, especially in a demanding career.
