Akron Children’s is unique in that three of its 11 orthopedic surgeons are women, well above the national average of just 7%. Orthopedic Surgeon Julie Samora, MD, PhD, chairs the Akron Children’s Orthopedics department, which is also rare. The trio of female orthopedic surgeons – Drs. Samora, Lorena Floccari and Sheryl Handler-Matasar – recently led […]
Physician staff gives back to patient families in need
In recognition of National Doctors’ Day, the medical staff executive committee voted to make a $16,000 donation to the newly opened Food Farmacy on the Boardman campus. This is the third year that medical staff funds have been used to make a charitable donation rather than purchasing tokens of appreciation for providers. Presenting the donation […]
APPs support mental health resources through giving
At Akron Children’s, our Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) do far more than care for patients—they lead, mentor and advocate for the health and well-being of their colleagues. As 2024 wrapped up, our APPs made a significant contribution to Akron Physician Wellness Initiative (APWI) through the Medical Staff Fund, recognizing the importance of mental health resources […]
Medical fellows embrace mindfulness and stress management at workshop
In keeping with Akron Children’s commitment to physician well-being, the Graduate Medical Education (GMEC) Wellbeing Committee recently hosted a Healing Breaths SKY program workshop. The event aimed to equip fellows with vital tools for managing stress and fostering resilience in their demanding roles. The one-hour session introduced participants to SKY Breath Meditation, a scientifically validated […]
Dr. Jordan Weith joins Akron Children’s pediatric psychology team
Originally from northern Vermont, Akron Children’s holds a special place in Dr. Jordan Weith’s heart because it’s where she was first introduced to pediatric psychology during her graduate training. In 2017 she moved to Ohio to pursue her doctorate in clinical psychology at Kent State University. After completing her internship at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in […]
Dr. Lauren Larkin-Barker joins urgent care in Beachwood and Boston Heights
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 […]