No Ordinary Pediatrician

Dr. Anthony Malone is no ordinary pediatrician. In addition to being designated a breastfeeding-friendly practice, his office, CapitalCare Pediatrics on Hoosick Street in Troy, NY, a division of Community Care Physicians, P.C., is also certified in car seat safety. But beyond the “warm and fuzzies” new moms get when they enter Dr. Malone’s office, there is special attention being paid to one of the nation’s most pressing health care issues.

Understanding that 35-40 percent of children will experience some type of mental health issue, Dr. Malone and his staff have made it their mission to pay just as much attention to patients’ emotional health as they do their physical health. This starts with extensive behavioral and developmental screenings of both patients and parents. From early infancy and post-partum depression, substance abuse to social anxiety, and universal screening for adverse childhood experiences (ACES), Dr. Malone and his staff are not afraid to talk to families about the symptoms and solutions to mental health disorders.

“Some practices take a ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ approach. We don’t think that’s helpful. We want to know if a child is struggling so we can get them the support they need,” said Malone. In addition to having their own mental health counselor who sees children and families within the practice setting, the practice also has an award-winning partnership with Unified Services, the children’s mental health program for Rensselaer County.

With many of its providers specializing in developmental-behavioral pediatrics, the practice has become a go-to source for parents with children struggling with developmental disorders, serving over 200 children with autism, as well as many others with complex developmental challenges.

In addition to the close attention paid to mental health, the practice is a firm believer in the foundation of early literacy, and has implemented a “Reach Out and Read” program that gives out free books at childhood well visits.

Last but certainly not least, the practice is not silent on the issue of childhood obesity. The office’s Dr. Jenny Torre uses her passion for nutrition to motivate families to visit local farmers’ markets, eat more fruits and vegetables, and offer fitness and nutrition education to children and their families.

As a physician-founded health plan committed to improving the health of the community, CDPHP is extremely proud of the work being done by the folks at CapitalCare Pediatrics in Troy. Well done!