LAKE ARIEL, PA — Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers (WMCHC) has added certified registered nurse practitioner Sara Kovalchik, RN, to its pediatric care team. Kovalchik treats patients aged newborn to 18 at the Sterling Pediatric Center, located at 62 Industrial Park Road. 

Services include well and sick child visits, developmental screenings, immunizations and more. Appointments can be made by calling 570/689-7565.

Kovalchik says being her family’s go-to babysitter allowed her to be surrounded by children for as long as she can remember. “That early experience sparked my passion for working with children and laid the foundation for my career path,” she said.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Pennsylvania State University, Kovalchik’s career as an RN included working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Moses Taylor Hospital, Scranton. She cared for critically ill infants, and recognized that a role in pediatrics allowed her to “care not only for the child, but also to support the entire family dynamic, which plays a crucial role in the child’s overall well-being.”

Kovalchik spent four years as an RN in the Clarks Summit pediatric practice of Anders Nelson, M.D. while working towards her master’s degree in nursing from Misericordia University, and received her doctoral degree in nursing practice there as well. . 

Kovalchik said that furthering her career at WMCHC stems from a desire to be part of a dynamic and supportive health care team where she can both contribute and learn. “My previous roles have equipped me with a broad skillset across the pediatric continuum, making me well-prepared to serve a wide range of patients,” she added. “WMCHC’s dedication to quality care and standing in the community make it an ideal organization for me to apply my skills and grow professionally as an NP.”

The Sterling site is one of WMCHC’s four pediatric outpatient practices. The others are located in Honesdale, Waymart and Lords Valley. WMCHC Pediatric Services offers affordable care to all, accepting most managed care plans, commercial insurances and PA Medical Assistance. Visit www.wmchc.net for information on health center services.