Hark, a meadowlark

Meadowlark Pediatrics, LLC has joined the visiting specialists at the Platte Valley Clinic and has begun seeing patients on alternate Thursdays. The Laramie-based medical group was founded by Paula Vasek, FNP and Elizabeth DePrince Smith, CPNP and provides pediatric wellness and acute care visits to families with children aged newborn through college.

Meadowlark services include physical exams with screens as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) as well as mental health services, AAP recommended hearing screens, fluoride varnishes, perinatal depression screens, and expanded lactation support, services not routinely offered by other pediatric practices in the area.

Vasek began her career as a CNA in a nursing home but gained a love for pediatrics working in the emergency department of Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma, WA after she earned her BS degree in nursing. Vasek also earned a Master of Nursing Education as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner degree, which she completed in 2005. The entirety of Vasek's career up to this point has been at Laramie Physicians for Women and Children specializing in pediatrics.

Smith graduated from Yale University's School of Nursing in 2006 with her MSN and earned her CPNP from the Pediatric Nursing Certificate Board that same year. She was formerly employed by Centre Pediatric Associates, PC in Brookline, MA and worked for the Wyoming Department of Health as their Women and Infant Health Coordinator. She joined Laramie Physicians for Women and Children in 2012. Smith is also an adjunct professor for the University of Wyoming's School of Nursing DNP program and is a mentor for students from UW and other universities. 

Heidi Sifford, manager of the Platte Valley Clinic, said the clinic welcomes the additional support and expanded treatment opportunities Meadowlark Pediatrics will make available to the community. She also reminded parents of students who will be participating in sports that they will need a sports physical before they can play. Two sports physical clinics are scheduled, July 28 from 4-8 and August 11 from 4-8. No appointments are needed, and forms will be available at the clinic. The cost is $20 cash or check at the time of service.

Meadowlark Pediatrics began seeing patients July 22 and will schedule appointments every other Thursday. Call 307-314-4242 to make an appointment.