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181 verified Pediatricians in San Diego, CA
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 04/23/2026
Availability last updated 04/23/2026
Nurse Practitioner
7 mi · 263 Church Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare + 2 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Mr. Michael Corbin is a highly trusted nurse practitioner who sees patients at Padilla Family Medicine in Chula Vista, CA. He is devoted to helping the wider community receive the care they deserve. As part of his formal education, Mr. Corbin earned a master's degree in adult nurse practitioner fro...Click to read more
Next available: today
Family Physician
4.05
·20 reviews
Overall this was a pretty productive doctor's appointment, I felt very heard and while she ran through things quickly she made sure to take the time to explain everything in depth. I also felt her knowledge of my medical conditions was a lot more up-to-date than previous doctors were which I find in...Click to read more
20.5 mi · 530 Lomas Santa Fe Dr, Suite M, Solana Beach, CA 92705
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients ·
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Dr. Natalie Marino is a compassionate physician board-certified in Family Medicine. She practices both Primary Care General Medicine, as well as Dermatology. She received her Medical Degree, as well as a Masters in Public Health, from the University of Pittsburgh. She completed her residency trainin...Click to read more
Family Physician
4.75
·4 reviews
Solid! Great doc - Aug 21, 2025 by Sonny S.Click to read more
57.5 mi · 395 W Avenida Vista Hermosa, Unit K, San Clemente, CA 92672
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 3 more ·
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Dr. Oscar Gantes is a family physician at Mission Heritage - Internal Medicine in San Clemente, CA. He accepts patients of all ages and genders with common illnesses, chronic diseases, minor injuries, and mental health issues. Dr. Gantes understands patients' conditions and prepares individualized ...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 20
Pediatrician
5.00
·3 reviews
69 mi · 23120 Alicia Pkwy, #230, Mission Viejo, CA 92692
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
CASH PAY clinic: - Fluent in both English and Spanish - Our services are SELF PAY Urgent care membership $50 and $99 per visit or one time visit: Telemedicine: $75 Sick visit: $200 includes a Free one time follow up in the next two weeks Newborn visit (less than 2 months old) :$300 As a board-cer...Click to read more
Next available: today
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.88
·1265 reviews
understanding & clearly knowledgeable in order to help meClick to read more
Fullerton, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 11 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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DISCLAIMER: Pyo Clinic is a learning facility but patient permission is ALWAYS sought before we include residents/students in their care. If patient prefers to see only Dr. Pyo, we fully respect their choice and will not include residents or students in their care. All of our patients are GUARANTEED...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Family Physician (Virtual)
3.63
·353 reviews
I had to wait one hour despite having an appointment. - Nov 14, 2016Click to read more
San Jose, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 52 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Vladimir Skorokhod is a family physician treating patients in San Jose, California, and the surrounding communities. He has more than 30 years of experience and serves as the medical director at Action Urgent Care. Dr. Skorokhod holds certification from the American Board of Family Medicine and ...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Los Altos,, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Rofida Nofal is a compassionate, board-certified pediatrician dedicated to providing children and their families with individualized, attentive, and culturally sensitive care. She believes that every child is precious and that truly excellent medical care begins with careful listening. Dr. Nofal...Click to read more
Next available: today
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
5.00
·7 reviews
I haven't been charged for the visit and I need it to come out of my account quickly. I also have not received my prescriptions. What can I do to expedite this? - Jan 6, 2026 by Jeana H.Click to read more
Markleeville, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Jen is a board-certified full practice Family Nurse Practitioner and former ICU, acute care nurse. She has been a nurse since 2013 and a nurse practitioner since 2018. Jen has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois, a master’s degree in nursing from DePaul University, and a post-master...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Internist (Virtual)
4.50
·60 reviews
Very kind and informative. Love seeing a hip, young, female doctor for primary care. - Aug 27, 2024Click to read more
Markleeville, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 43 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Dina Albaree is an esteemed Internist specializing in General Internal Medicine and Primary Care, providing in-person services at Horizon Dermatology & Primary Care Medical Clinic in Beverly Hills, California. She also offers virtual appointments throughout California, ensuring accessibility for...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
5.00
·1 review
- Mar 30, 2026 by Wenjuan D.Click to read more
Markleeville, CA
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in high cholesterol + 1 more ·
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Dr. Luis Artavia is a highly regarded family physician. He practices at Virtual Home Physician Care, where he sees patients virtually. Dr. Artavia earned his medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine of USC. Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, he offers preventive care, diagno...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 27
Internist (Virtual)
4.61
·33 reviews
It was the best experience with a Doctor . Made me feel comfortable and answered all my questions . Thank you again - May 31, 2025 by Lonnikia H.Click to read more
Markleeville, CA
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
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Clinic visit cost is $150, which you are expected to pay once you book and before your scheduled appointment. All appointments are self-pay; insurance is not accepted. I earned my Doctor of Medicine from the University of Damascus Faculty of Medicine and completed my Residency in Internal Medicine a...Click to read more
Next available: today
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.96
·152 reviews
Great listener, and gave helpful info in a pleasant, and helpful way.Click to read more
Markleeville, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Gary Melkonyan, FNP-C is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in advanced endocrine and metabolic health, offering all services exclusively through telehealth. My clinical expertise includes diabetes care (including insulin pump management), thyroid disorders with in-house ultrasound wh...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, Apr 25
Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
4.07
·43 reviews
Didn’t receive a single email from them with a link just terrible. Even called their number just to get hit with a voicemail that points me to their website before it hangs up. - Sep 8, 2025 by Jeremy S.Click to read more
Markleeville, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 23 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Mercy Oyerinde is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatric mental health. Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, she witnessed the struggles of individuals with mental ailments, facing limited access to care and cultural stigmas, which inspired her to pursue mental health. Mer...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Apr 27
Family Physician (Virtual)
BERKELEY, CA
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
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Jayshree Chander, MD, MPH is a board-certified Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine physician with over 30 years of clinical experience. **Please note, I do not prescribe controlled substances.** She is the founder of Beyond Holistic Health, an integrative medical practice offering personalized...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Apr 28
Pediatrician
3.5 mi · 2790 Truxtun Road, Ste 100, San Diego, CA 92106
Also offers video visitsAccepting new patientsExpertise in chronic high blood pressure + 3 more
Pediatrician
3.5 mi · 2790 Truxtun Road, Ste 100, San Diego, CA 92106
Also offers video visitsAccepting new patientsExpertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) + 3 more
Geriatrician
4.93
·286 reviews
Very friendly and helpful with any questions that you have. - Apr 30, 2019 by Michael B.Click to read more
7 mi · 3023 Bunker Hill St, Office# 205, San Diego, CA 92109
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 54 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in chronic diabetes + 9 more ·
Read bio
Associated with Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center/Kaiser Foundation Hospital, Palomar Medical Center, and Sharp Memorial Hospital, Dr. Kaveh Bahmanpour is a considerate family physician, geriatrician, and primary care doctor practicing at his own clinic. Patients see him for a host of reaso...Click to read more
Internist
23.5 mi · 351 Santa Fe Drive, Ste #250, Encinitas, CA 92024
Accepts Aetna, UnitedHealthcare + 3 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Expertise in high cholesterol + 7 more ·
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Dr. Kern Brar is a compassionate, board-certified internal medicine physician who offers personalized primary care tailored to each patient's unique needs. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Ross University School of Medicine - Academic Campus and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at A...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.69
·13 reviews
I had an excellent experience at Greys Health! From the moment I start my process, the staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and supportive. The personalized weight management plan they created for me was realistic and tailored to my lifestyle, which made all the difference. I appreciated the regular ...Click to read more
Palm Springs, CA
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Book Your Virtual Health Appointment Today with Dr. Abhinav Markus! Looking for expert care from the comfort of your home? Dr. Abhinav Markus, a trusted family physician who earned his Doctor of Medicine from St. George's University and completed his residency in Family Medicine at Arrowhead Region...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
Riverside, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in sepsis + 1 more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.62
·97 reviews
Dr. Pearson is professional and answers all my questions I have. It's always a pleasure to be seen by Dr. Pearson. by JEClick to read more
Seal Beach, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 4 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. James Pearson completed his medical residency training at the University of Southern California's CVVP Health system and completed a subsequent fellowship at the University of California Irvine. He has continued his professional training at the American Board of Aesthetic Medicine and practices...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Loma Linda, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 25 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Jeff Swanson is a compassionate Family Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. He offers a broad range of services, from preventive care to managing chronic conditions, always focused on improving patients’ health and well-being. Jeff earned his Master’s in Nur...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Bellflower, CA
Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Medicare + 2 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
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50 years of experience dedicated to providing well-rounded health care for children of all ages. Dr. Reid earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, DC. She completed her internship at the Medical Center at Elizabeth Place in Ohio and a residency at the Child...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.87
·147 reviews
Great visit, Dr. Chen was very helpful, patient and she answered my questions Thanks by ABClick to read more
Norwalk, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 13 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR APPOINTMENT WITHIN 24 HOURS OF YOUR BOOKING VIA TEXT OR CALL. (Your appointment might be canceled if not confirmed 24 hours before your appointment time) Dr. Cynthia Chen-Joea is a highly skilled family physician in Norwalk, CA. She offers in-person and virtual services at Copa ...Click to read more
Geriatrician (Virtual)
3.82
·51 reviews
Good bedside manner for a phone appointment. Long wait, COVID-19 makes office appearances a no go. - Apr 14, 2021 by Mahala E.Click to read more
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 24 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 6 more ·
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Dr. Ashish Malhotra is Board Certified in Family Medicine and Fellowship trained in Geriatric Medicine. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Dr. Malhotra completed his Residency in Family Medicine at North Oakland Medical Center and his F...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Virtual)
5.00
·17 reviews
Arcadia, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 44 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Expertise in acute urinary tract infection ·
Read bio
Ms. June Elaine Tiamzon Juanico is a diligent and reliable physician assistant. She sees patients at Keck Medicine of USC - Family Medicine in Arcadia, CA. Ms. Juanico received her bachelor's degree from California State Polytechnic University. She then attended Touro University, Vallejo, where she...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Virtual)
5.00
·17 reviews
Los Angeles, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 44 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Mr. Matthew Fraire is an experienced physician assistant who serves the people of Los Angeles, CA. He is currently associated with Keck USC - Family Medicine and is eager to help the wider community receive the care they deserve. Mr. Fraire earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Califo...Click to read more
Family Nurse Practitioner (Virtual)
Valley Village, CA
Accepts Medicare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Ms. Cecilia Regalado is an experienced family nurse practitioner. She practices at Valley Village Health Clinic in Valley Village, CA, and also offers virtual consultations. As part of her formal education, Ms. Regalado acquired a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in nursing from West Coast U...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
5.00
·2 reviews
Dr. Atalla was so warm and thorough. She was incredibly patient with my 5 year old son even though he was challenging at times. The office staff was extremely accommodating, sweet, and helpful. They were very affordable and able to have us visit on a short notice. Definitely recommend!Click to read more
San Fernando, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time · Expertise in upper respiratory infection (uri) ·
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Marta Atalla, MD is a Pediatrics/Internal Medicine Specialist located in San Fernando, California. Dr. Atalla graduated from the Medical University of Warsaw Faculty of Medicine, Poland, in 1990. With 31 years of experience in the medical field, she is board-certified by the American Board of Pediat...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
4.85
·521 reviews
Friendly staff, less wait and a doctor who listens & guides 1st time parents. - Jul 16, 2021 by Aarya Y.Click to read more
San Jose, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 47 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended ·
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Dr. Rekha Manghnani, MD, is a board-certified doctor specializing in pediatric care in San Jose and Sunnyvale, California. She earned her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, and medical degree at Government Medical College in Nagpur, India. She also earned her MD from UMDNJ New Jersey. Dr. Ma...Click to read more
Physician Assistant (Virtual)
4.94
·110 reviews
very great experience. clean, friendly, and professional - Mar 27, 2026Click to read more
Campbell, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Miriam Sherif, PA-C, moved to the Bay Area in late 2023 and is thrilled to join the Carbon Health team. She earned her Master's in Physician Assistant Studies from South College. Her prior clinical experience was at a community hospital in Dallas, providing primary care to people living with HIV. In...Click to read more
Urgent Care Clinic (Virtual)
4.07
·69 reviews
Great experience. Out of town, felt a little under the weather. Fixed me right up. Highly recommended. - Jul 13, 2024 by Jason H.Click to read more
Santa Clara, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 14 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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AFC Santa Clara offers walk-in options to address your immediate healthcare needs, including urgent care, lab testing, and vaccinations. Our mission is to provide the best healthcare possible in a kind and caring environment, delivered economically and with respect for the rights of all our patients...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Fremont, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Susan Dugoni is a board-certified pediatrician who received her medical degree from the University of California at Davis, where she graduated as a Regent’s Scholar and a member of the medical honor society. She received her pediatric training at the Children’s Hospital and Medical Center of Nor...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Fremont, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Patrick Burke is a board-certified pediatrician who received his medical degree at Mehany Medical College and completed his pediatric training at Children’s Hospital of San Francisco. Some of Dr. Burke’s specific interests include the management of asthma and allergies. “I am honored to pract...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Fremont, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Marjorie Alpert is a board-certified pediatrician who received her medical degree at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and completed her pediatric training at Kaiser Foundation Hospital in Los Angeles. Dr. Alpert enjoys caring for children of all ages. Her special intere...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Fremont, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Sara Dobbs is a board-certified pediatrician who received her medical degree at Yale University School of Medicine and completed her pediatric training at the University of California at San Francisco. Dr. Dobbs completed a thesis on Intergenerational Patterns of Child Abuse, which continues to ...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Fremont, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
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Dr. Ali Hallaj-pour is thrilled to return to the Bay Area to practice pediatrics in Fremont. He completed his undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Science in Cell Biology at the University of CA, Davis and received his medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia. His...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
Fremont, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Accepting new patients · 25+ years of experience · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Dr. Dennis Unson is a board-certified pediatrician who received his medical degree at New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York where he was an honor student. He completed his pediatric training at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford. Dr. Unson has a special interest in pediatric gas...Click to read more
Family Physician (Virtual)
4.07
·831 reviews
Inspite of having an appointment and arriving 15 mins early, had to wait for almost an hour. Reception was poor.Click to read more
Palo Alto, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 41 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Expertise in chronic high blood pressure + 9 more ·
Read bio
Now offering services via Telemedicine (Video visit)! Dr. Ramandeep Kaur practices at Instant Urgent Care, which offers both Urgent Care and Primary Care services. Patients who choose to see Dr. Kaur for Primary Care and Wellness services are billed as a Primary Care doctor's office and not as urge...Click to read more
Pediatrician (Virtual)
4.78
·318 reviews
It is always a pleasure visiting! Such an amazing pediatrician by GPClick to read more
Markleeville, CA
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 67 more
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Self-pay rate: $80 We do not see adults. We do not accept Medicaid. We do not prescribe controlled medications or stimulant ADHD medications over a virtual visit, but only during in-person visits. Dr. Chukwujekwu Okpalaji is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing compr...Click to read more
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Pediatrician in San Diego?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Pediatrician in San Diego, book an appointment, and see the Pediatrician within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Pediatricians in San Diego who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a San Diego Pediatrician who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a San Diego Pediatrician who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a Pediatrician in San Diego?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Pediatricians in San Diego and book appointments instantly. You can search for San Diego Pediatricians by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Pediatrician in San Diego?

When you search for San Diego Pediatricians on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Pediatricians in San Diego who match your preferences.


How can I find a San Diego Pediatrician who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for San Diego Pediatricians with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Pediatrician in San Diego?

You can use Zocdoc to find Pediatricians in San Diego who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Pediatrician online in San Diego?

Pediatricians in San Diego on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Pediatricians who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Pediatrician online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Pediatricians in San Diego who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a Pediatrician in San Diego who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Pediatrician who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a Pediatrician in San Diego who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Pediatricians in San Diego. Many Pediatricians offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who are pediatricians? Why are they important?


Pediatricians are doctors who treat infants, children, and adolescents and help them maintain a healthy life. They provide medical care during acute illnesses and manage the children’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being at every stage of their development. Pediatrics, the medical branch of child care, combines general and specialized medicine, requiring pediatricians to possess knowledge of the entire body, its interrelatedness, and how to treat various aspects of children’s health.

Owing to the physiological differences between children and adults, pediatricians are crucial in ensuring that the treatment and care are child-friendly. For example, drugs that are safe for adults may have harmful side effects on children and hence, cannot be prescribed to them. Additionally, pediatricians are mindful that children have a greater ability to rebound quickly, which may result in a sustained period followed by sudden and severe deterioration requiring urgent medical attention.

If a parent has concerns about their child’s growth, development, and mental or physical health, they should visit a pediatrician. It is an excellent idea to locate a reputable pediatrician before the baby’s birth to ensure proper care from birth to early adulthood.


Qualifications of a pediatrician


Pediatricians complete a pre-medical undergraduate degree and then take the Medical College Admissions Test to be eligible for medical school. Once selected, they spend four years in medical school: two years covering classroom lessons and the remaining years participating in clinical rotations before graduating with an MD or a DO degree.

After graduating from medical school, pediatricians complete three years of a pediatric residency program, where they train to treat and care for children. To become eligible for board certifications, pediatricians must pass a written test by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) after completing their residency.

When seeking a pediatrician, you should consider the following skills:

  • Strong interpersonal skills: A pediatrician must communicate effectively and empathetically with children and parents, especially in situations involving chronic illness and personal hygiene.
  • Flexibility and energy: Since medical emergencies can occur at any time, your pediatrician must be available and able to work irregular hours and weekends while remaining active and productive during rounds, surgeries, and other duties.
  • Emotional stability: Your pediatrician should act professionally and maintain emotional composure while working with patients.


What does a pediatrician do?


Pediatricians cover various health-related issues, from critical care of children to counseling during childbirth and routine care for their children. Some of the reasons why you may need a pediatrician are:

  • Routine care: Pediatricians are trained to look after children’s physical, emotional, and behavioral needs. During the children’s development phase, routine care will help them maintain a healthy life.
  • Care for child-specific difficulties: Children have unique needs and require special attention, as adults often find it challenging to understand their difficulties. Pediatricians specialize in identifying the problems faced by children and understanding their needs.
  • Care for congenital disorders: For children with a congenital health condition requiring close monitoring and treatment, a pediatrician is the right choice, as they can provide specialized care.
  • Specialized care: Pediatricians who are specialized in specific fields like nephrology, cardiology, or oncology can treat critical illnesses in children.

During a child’s first two years, they must have frequent “well-child visits” with a pediatrician. These visits typically occur semi-annually from ages 2 to 5 and continue every year after age 5. Schedule timely wellness visits with one of the best pediatricians near you to ensure your child hits all standard developmental milestones. In caring for your child, they will:

  • Conduct physical examinations
  • Administer recommended immunizations
  • Monitor the child’s growth, behavior, and skills to ensure they meet developmental milestones
  • Diagnose and treat the child’s health issues, such as illnesses, infections, and injuries
  • Provide advice on health, safety, nutrition, and fitness
  • Respond to inquiries regarding the child’s growth and development
  • Collaborate with specialists if the child requires care beyond the pediatrician’s expertise


Subspecialties in pediatrics


  • Critical care pediatricians

Critical illnesses in children that cause the child to be unstable or critical, like a severe asthma attack, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe pneumonia or meningitis, kidney or liver failure, severe injuries from accidents, and cancer, are treated by critical care pediatrics. Children suffering from acute illnesses require pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) monitoring. Critical care pediatricians coordinate with a team of doctors, nurses, and other health care specialists. 

  • Pediatric oncologists

Pediatric oncologists are specialists who treat cancers in children and adolescents. Pediatric oncologists are also trained in treating blood disorders (hematology). After completing their certification, the specialists conduct a 3-year fellowship in pediatric oncology. Doctors follow standard procedures like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, stem cell transplants, and surgery during the treatment. 

  • Pediatric cardiologists

Pediatric cardiologists deal with heart-related diseases like arrhythmia, congenital heart defects (CHD), and genetic conditions like Down syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and Turner syndrome in children and adolescents. Pediatric cardiologists coordinate with other specialists, like the primary care provider and the child’s regular pediatrician, during the treatment. The doctors use echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, and imaging tools to detect heart issues. Depending on the severity of the illness, the doctor can give inpatient or outpatient care. 

  • Pediatric neurologists

Pediatric neurologists treat conditions related to the nervous system in children. The doctors treat children from birth through 18 years of age and address the child-specific requirements. Pediatric neurologists treat common neurological conditions like migraine, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and rare diseases like traumatic brain injury, metabolic disorders, and degenerative conditions. During a visit to the pediatric neurologist, children are assessed using several techniques, like using a reflex hammer on the knees and elbows to check reflexes. The doctor might also ask the child to perform actions like walking, running, standing up, reporting words, and answering questions to check their motor skills, mental status, and coordination.

  • Neonatologists

Neonatologists are doctors trained to care for newborn children. Newborns with health challenges like underdeveloped organs or structural deformities require specific medical expertise and intensive care. Neonatologists also play an essential role in routine aspects of care, like counseling the parents during childbirth. Neonatologists are the first line of support for high-risk births. They help during complications such as underdeveloped respiratory or digestive systems, premature labor, and perinatal asphyxia, i.e., lack of oxygen during birth. These specialists primarily work inside the neonatal intensive care units (NICU). Some common conditions taken care of inside NICUs are premature birth, hypoglycemia, respiratory distress, and acute infections like sepsis.  

Other pediatric specializations include:

  • Adolescent medicine specialists: They help adolescents and young adults between 11 and 21 with their complex emotional, physical, and behavioral health requirements by performing physical exams, immunizations, and reproductive and mental healthcare.
  • Child abuse pediatrics: They have special training and experience in assessing children who might be victims of some form of abuse or neglect.
  • Developmental-behavioral pediatrics: They help manage and treat developmental and behavioral problems in children and adolescents by taking into consideration the medical and psychosocial aspects of these conditions. 
  • Pediatric emergency medicine specialists: They work in the emergency departments of hospitals, where they take care of acutely ill or injured children.
  • Pediatric endocrinologists: They specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting children’s hormones and hormone-producing glands. 
  • Pediatric gastroenterologists: They cater to digestive disorders in children and teens.
  • Pediatric hospital medicine specialists: They work in hospitals, where they care for children across different units, including pediatric acute care, newborn nursery, labor and delivery, emergency care, and neonatal and pediatric intensive care.
  • Pediatric infectious disease specialists: They specialize in diagnosing and treating children with congenital or acquired illnesses of the immune system, including those caused by bacteria, parasites, fungus, and other rare infectious agents.
  • Pediatric pulmonologists: They specialize in treating children with breathing problems and other lung conditions.
  • Pediatric rheumatologists: They cater to children with autoimmune (diseases where the immune system harms the body’s healthy cells) and rheumatic disorders (fevers, joint pain, and disorders affecting the internal organs).


Find the best pediatricians near you in San Diego


Anxiety is a natural emotion most parents face regarding their children’s health. It is not easy to trust anyone with a child’s well-being. Finding a doctor or pediatrician who can take proper care of and guide you through the different phases of your child’s development is crucial.

A platform like Zocdoc helps you find the right one by providing several top-rated pediatricians who are qualified and experienced in treating various conditions. One can access essential and verified information about a provider’s training, certification, and qualification on the platform.

You can book both in-person and online appointments via Zocdoc. While browsing the list of doctors matching your criteria, look for a purple video icon beside their name. The presence of this icon indicates that the doctor offers virtual consultations.

Zocdoc provides an easy alternative to an otherwise lengthy and taxing process of booking appointments with its straightforward interface. To identify the best pediatricians near you, you can filter all healthcare providers based on their insurance network, location, verified patient testimonials, and specialty. All bookings made on Zocdoc are 100% free, fast, and safe!


Pediatric statistics in San Diego


According to statistics from Kidsdata by the Population Reference Bureau, there have been 1778 deaths in children from San Diego caused by vaccine-preventable childhood diseases like diphtheria, measles, polio, and tetanus.

On average, 796 cases of cancer in children were detected between 0-19 years in San Diego. Similarly, between 2017 and 2018, 11.4 percent of children between the ages of 0-19 were diagnosed with asthma.


Sources


Cleveland Clinic

WebMD[1]

WebMD[2]

WebMD[3]

Verywell Health


The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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