Integrated Care Models for Children and Youth in Foster Care | |
Children and youth involved in child welfare are brought into a system with disruptions and removal from their families of origin without any forewarning or consent. This is a traumatic event in the child’s life even if the placement is in a home which is safer for the child. We as pediatricians have a critical role to play in determining that the healthcare and mental healthcare needs are addressed for this population in the most comprehensive and collaborative manner possible. Integrated care is an evidence-based, trauma informed approach that uses collaborative care among medical and behavioral health clinicians to address the multifaceted and complex health needs of children in foster and kinship care. This integrated care approach can be achieved in a variety of ways as many within our Council on Foster Care, Adoption and Kinship Care have demonstrated. These models are listed on the AAP website.
Fostering Health: Health Care for Children and Adolescents in Foster Care, 2nd Edition was published in 2004 described to me the aspects of care for children and youth in foster care and quite literally changed my life! This book and my frustration with the barriers in communication and collaboration I was facing in caring for this population drove my interest in starting a fully integrated care model clinic to include medical, mental health, behavior/development, and family navigation in one location to serve the children/youth and families involved in child welfare...continue reading...
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Katy Carlsen, MD, FAAP
Foster Care Liason, AAP-CA1
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Childhood Nutrition & Obesity Committee Meeting: Advanced Treatments for Severe Pediatric Obesity
Wednesday, June 17 | 12 p.m - 1 p.m | Virtual
AAPCA1 invites you to join the Childhood Nutrition & Obesity Committee meeting held virtually on Wednesday, June 17 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. Don’t miss this important discussion on Advanced Treatments for Severe Pediatric Obesity, featuring guest speaker Dr. Janey S.A. Pratt, MD, FACS, FASMBS, Director of the Adolescent Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital.
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Pediatric Practice Support Office Hours
Sept. 1 & Nov. 3 | 6 p.m - 7 p.m | Virtual
Join fellow local pediatricians for informal peer-to-peer sessions designed to strengthen your practice and your community. Organized by our Practice Support Committee, these gatherings are a space to share best practices, tackle shared challenges, and stay informed on local, regional, and national issues shaping pediatric care. No agenda, no pressure, just collegial conversation with the people who understand your work best.
Additional Practice Support Office Hours:
11/3/26 from 6 p.m - 7 p.m - register here
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Advocating for Children (ACT) Conference
Saturday, Sept. 19 | 8 a.m - 5 p.m | Kaiser Permanente Medical Center | 3600 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94611
Join us for a one-day CME-eligible conference designed to build a community of pediatric providers who are engaged and equipped to influence child health policy. Participants will experience dynamic, TED-style talks on timely advocacy topics, engage in mentorship sessions, and take part in interactive workshops focused on media training, writing for advocacy, AI, strengthening community advocacy skills, and more!
Registration prices:
Chapter Members $100
Non-Chapter member $150
Trainees $35
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April 2026 - Cal-MAP Mental Health Bootcamp - Eureka
The “Think Like a Shrink” Pediatric Mental Health Bootcamp brought together pediatric mental health champions in Eureka for an engaging weekend of learning, collaboration, and practical skill-building. The event featured presentations from expert speakers and was made possible through the support of Partnership Health Plan, Open Door, Cal-MAP, and AAP-CA Chapter 1’s outreach efforts. We are grateful to everyone who helped organize, sponsor, and participate in this meaningful training opportunity.
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May 2026 - 10th Annual Pediatrics Puzzles CME Conference - San Francisco
AAP California Chapter 1’s 10th Annual Pediatric Puzzles CME Conference brought together pediatricians, primary care providers, nurses, family medicine providers, and residents at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens for a day of learning, connection, and practical skill-building. This year’s conference explored timely pediatric topics including AI, autism in the news, relational health, pediatric obesity in the era of GLP-1 therapies, and supporting adolescents in a changing world. We are grateful to our speakers, attendees, and everyone who helped make this meaningful CME opportunity possible.
| Chapter Leadership Positions | |
Apply for Area Director Positions!
As an Area Director, you'll be part of a dynamic team representing one of our 11 diverse geographic areas. You will become a voting member of our chapter board and engage with local pediatric providers to advocate for children's health through the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Volunteer alongside a supportive leadership team dedicated to shaping the future of pediatric care.
Time commitment: 2-4 hours per month
Perks and Benefits:
- Membership on AAP Board: Gain valuable experiences and networking opportunities
- Discounted CME Events: Access quality education at reduced rates.
- Advocacy Day in Sacramento: Participate in impactful advocacy efforts.
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Apply for Immigrant Child Health Chair/Co-Chair Position!
The Immigrant Child Health Committee Chair provides leadership in advancing the health and well-being of immigrant children and families across Northern and Central California. This role focuses on fostering collaboration, promoting education, and supporting advocacy efforts that ensure immigrant communities have access to safe, welcoming, and equitable pediatric care. The Chair works closely with chapter leadership, community partners, and national initiatives to strengthen pediatrician engagement in immigrant child health.
Time commitment: Approximately 2–4 hours per month, including participation in quarterly Board meetings, committee meetings, and committee-related activities.
Term: Determined by appointed chair
Apply by sending your CV to info@aapca1.org
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Apply for AAP-CA1 Newsletter Editing Team!
The Pediatric Newsletter Editing Team is seeking applications to join the AAP-CA1 Newsletter Editing Team. You will play a pivotal role in providing valuable feedback and edits for our monthly Newsletter. This commitment only requires a few hours per month, providing you the flexibility to enhance the quality of articles submitted by our pediatricians.
When sending CV to the Executive Director, Yolanda Ruiz please respond to the following questions to help us understand your motivations and backgrounds better:
- Why do you want to be part of the newsletter team?
- What journalism, writing, or publishing background do you have, if any.
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The full Role & Responsibilities can be viewed HERE.
To apply, send CV to Yolanda Ruiz at yolanda.ruiz@aapca1.org.
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Family Movie Day - Toy Story 5 Premiere! - AAP Alameda Contra Costa Medical Association (ACCMA)
Alameda Contra Costa Medical Association (ACCMA) and AAP are hosting a Family Movie Day with the Toy Story 5 Premiere!
Join us at Cinemark Century Walnut Creek 14 and XD (1201 Locust Street, Walnut Creek) on Saturday, June 20 for an afternoon of family fun. The event kicks off at 12:00 PM with a pre-movie meet-up in the theater’s arcade room, where families can connect and enjoy fun raffle prizes before the show. Then grab your popcorn and settle in as Toy Story 5 begins at 1:00 PM! Please be in your seats by 12:45 PM. Bring the whole family and celebrate the return of Buzz, Woody, and friends on the big screen. We can’t wait to see you there!
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Apply for the Care & Connect Microgrants for up to $2,000!
AAPCA1 is excited to offer its members the opportunity to apply for a chapter microgrant. The Care & Connect Microgrant Project, offers microgrants valued at up to $2,000 (no amount is too small) which can be utilized in one of two impactful ways. The first option supports innovative community-based child health initiatives. The second option is to host member gatherings and meetings within your local area. Along with the grant, you will have the full support of our AAPCA1 staff to carry out your grant goals. We encourage all members to take advantage of this chance to either drive community health improvements or enhance pediatric connections!
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Apply for the Leonard P. Rome CATCH Visiting Professorship — Up to $4,500 Available!
AAP-CA1 members are encouraged to explore the Leonard P. Rome CATCH Visiting Professorship, a funding opportunity designed to support pediatric residency programs in strengthening community health and advocacy training. This opportunity provides up to $4,500 each for up to 5 qualifying programs to host a 2- or 3-day visiting professorship focused on resident education, faculty development, and building partnerships that support community child health. The Visiting Professorship must take place between September 1, 2026, and April 30, 2027.
Applications are due Friday, May 29, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time.
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Nominate a Pediatrician for the F. Edwards Rushton CATCH Award
AAP-CA1 members are encouraged to submit nominations for the 2026 F. Edwards Rushton CATCH Award, which recognizes pediatricians who have advanced child health through meaningful CATCH projects.
This award honors pediatricians whose work has grown beyond its original goals and made a lasting impact on children’s access to health care and other needed services. One AAP Fellow is selected each year to receive this national recognition.
Visit the COCP website for complete descriptions of each award as well as nomination guidelines. All nominations are due by Friday, May 29, 2026, at 11:59 pm CST. Questions should be directed to COCP@aap.org.
Nominations are due Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time.
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42nd Annual Current Advances in Pediatrics
Friday, Oct. 16 - 18 | The Irvine Mariott Hotel | 18000 Von Karman Ave, Irvine, CA 92612
The seminar is intended for Pediatricians, Family Practitioners, and Allied Health Professionals. It will emphasize newer treatments and their practical applications for both the office and hospital practice of pediatrics. This year’s program will focus on topics that include: Dermatology, Endocrinology, General Pediatrics, Infectious Diseases, Pediatric Urology & Newborn Medicine.
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2026 National Conference & Exhibition
Friday, Oct. 2 - 6 | San Diego Convention Center| 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) invites you to soak up the sun and sharpen your skills at the 2026 National Conference & Exhibition, happening October 2–6 in beautiful San Diego, California.
Registration is now open for members.
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47th Annual Las Vegas Seminars
Join the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) California Chapter for the 47th Annual Las Vegas Seminars, an engaging educational experience designed for pediatricians, family practitioners, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and allied health professionals. This year’s program features expert-led updates in Pediatric Nephrology, Endocrinology & Nutrition, Pediatric Dermatology, Infectious Diseases, Adolescent Gynecology, and Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, with a focus on practical, evidence-based care for both office and hospital settings.
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Pediatric Careers in California!
Explore our job board for exciting career opportunities or share one of your own. Visit aapca1.org/jobs/.
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Chapter Members: Enjoy a discounted rate of $50 for a 90-day job posting and promotion.
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Non-Members/Corporate Entities: Post for 30 days at $100.
Take the next step in your pediatric career today!
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Pediatric Jobs Available!
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AAP urges federal officials to remove immigration barriers for international medical graduates
The AAP is one of two dozen medical groups urging federal officials to expedite immigration proceedings for international medical graduates (IMGs) like the pediatrician. Administrative delays are keeping medical students, resident physicians and practicing physicians from entering the U.S. or remaining in the country during a time when there is a physician shortage.
Recommended by AAP
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Cal-MAP: Mental Health Support Resources
Cal-MAP’s team of mental health specialists supports primary care providers (PCPs) treating youth with mental health needs through education, consultation, and resource navigation.
Register for the Cal-MAP consultation program here: https://cal-map.org
Contact Us:
Phone:
800-253-2103
Email: info@cal-map.org
Recommended by AAP-CA1 Mental Health Committee
| | | | | | Reading With Your Child / Leer con tu hijo | |
Want to read with your child but aren’t sure how to start? In these videos (with English and Spanish captions), Dr. Ruby Dey and parents show simple ways to read with young children from newborns to age 4. You’ll learn what to expect at different ages.
Reading with Your Newborn Guidance from Dr. Ruby Dey - 4 min video
Reading With Your Child - 4 min video
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All About the AAP Recommended Immunization Schedule
Your pediatrician cares about your child's health and development. To help keep kids healthy, they follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule.
Recommended by AAP
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Your membership makes a difference for children in California, thank you!
The AAPCA1's ability to advocate on behalf of children is only as strong as the support we receive from our members. Encourage your colleagues to join today by visiting the AAPCA1 website.
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Our mission is to promote the optimal health and development of children and
adolescents of Northern California in partnership with their families and communities, and to support the pediatricians who care for them.
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Executive Committee:
President: Neel Patel • Vice President: Saul Diaz Martinez
• Secretary: Kerrilyn Rice • Treasurer: Amita Saxena • Past President: Nicole Webb
Area Directors:
North Valley: Aishwarya Taneja • Sacramento Valley: Lena van der List • Central Valley: Deborah Shassetz • South Valley: Sireesha Palkamsetti • San Francisco: Ryan Alanzalon • Santa Clara: Swetang Shahm • San Mateo: Jonathon Everett • North Coastal: VACANT • Monterey Bay: VACANT • Alameda County: Renee Wachtel • Contra Costa/Solano: Jennifer Anne Miller
Pediatric Insider News Editors:
Christy Capestany • Nicole Anderson
Staff:
Executive Director: Yolanda Ruiz • Project Coordinator: Sana Sayyid •
Marketing Assistant: Arathzy Portillo
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