Frequently Asked Questions
We know that raising a child comes with a million questions, and we’re honored to be part of your family’s journey. Below, you’ll find answers to the questions we hear most often.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office directly. There’s no such thing as a question too small when it comes to your child’s health.
Who are your doctors?
Our team includes Dr. Elizabeth Dyer, Dr. Matthew Harris, Dr. Annique Jugant, and Dr. Amanda Salter — all board-certified pediatricians and fellows of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Learn more on our Our Pediatricians page.
What are your office hours?
We are open Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. For urgent needs outside of office hours, please see our after-hours options below.
Where are you located?
We are located at 24502 Pacific Park Drive, Suite 104, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656.
Directions are available on our Location page.
How do I schedule an appointment?
To schedule an appointment, give us a call at (949) 898-6220, Monday–Friday during office hours.
We offer same-day appointments for school physicals, well visits, and sick care. Call early to check availability.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. We welcome new patients from infancy through the teen years. Visit our Visiting Our Office page to get started.
How do I choose the right pediatrician for my child?
Choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important decisions a parent makes. We encourage families to consider factors such as the doctor’s communication style, office hours, hospital affiliations, and approach to care.
Do you see newborns? Can I visit before my baby is born?
Yes, we care for children from birth. We encourage expectant parents to reach out before their baby arrives to establish care and meet their child’s doctor. That way, your first newborn appointment feels familiar, not rushed.
What is your approach to immunizations?
Our practice follows the vaccination schedule set by the AAP. These guidelines are developed by some of the world’s leading pediatric health experts and are based on decades of scientific research.
We want to be transparent about this: our commitment to the recommended vaccine schedule is not political. It is medical. Vaccines are among the most thoroughly studied interventions in the history of medicine, and the schedule is carefully designed to protect children at the ages when they are most vulnerable.
We also understand that in today’s world, it can be hard to know who or what to trust. If you have questions, doubts, or things you’ve read or heard that concern you, we genuinely want to hear them. Our door is open for those conversations — always kindly, always without judgment. Your child’s safety is our shared goal.
Learn more on our Immunizations page.
What do I do if my child gets sick after hours?
We partner with Rady Children’s Health to offer several options when our office is closed:
- 24/7 Nurse Advice Line: Call 1-844-GET-CHOC for free, round-the-clock guidance from pediatric healthcare experts. This line can also connect you to a virtual physician visit when needed.
- Pediatric Urgent Care: For non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that need in-person evaluation, Rady Children’s Health has urgent care locations available in Irvine and Orange.
- Emergency: If your child is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. See our pediatric emergency departments here.
See our After-Hours Care page for full details.
When should I use urgent care vs. the emergency room?
Urgent care is appropriate for non-life-threatening situations such as:
- Ear infections, sore throats, or minor infections
- Minor cuts, sprains, or injuries
- Fever in children over 3 months who are otherwise stable
- Vomiting or diarrhea without signs of severe dehydration
Go to the ER or call 911 for situations such as:
- Difficulty breathing or turning blue
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Severe allergic reactions
- Head injuries with confusion or repeated vomiting
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months old
Not sure? Call 1-844-GET-CHOC and a pediatric nurse will help you decide.
Where can I find helpful parenting resources?
Our Parenting Articles page has expert tips and news from the Rady Children’s Health network on a wide range of child health topics.
What insurance do you accept?
We accept a wide range of insurance plans. Learn more on our Insurance and Billing page. Please call (949) 898-6220 to confirm your specific plan before your visit.

