Emily Vander Schaaf, MD, MPH

As long as I can remember, I have sought out roles caring for children. It began when I was the oldest child helping my younger brothers and continued as I sought summer jobs as a babysitter or camp counselor. Then, as a college student, I first held a human kidney and became enthralled with the amazing complexity of the human body. Instantaneously, I knew I wanted to be a pediatrician. Primary care pediatrics is my dream job. It lets me build years-long relationships with children and families while guiding them through their bodies changes and illnesses. The joy of a primary care pediatrician is getting to know families during times of health to be able to better support them in times of stress. I strive to partner with families to pursue the best care for their children. The primary care pediatrics practice should serve as the patients medical home. It should help families navigate a complicated medical system and coordinate care with and between specialists. When I am not working, you can usually find me walking around my neighborhood or at a local playground. I spend as much time as possible with my husband, child, family and friends. I am always listening to music and love catching local bands play at the Triangles many outdoor concert venues.