Dr. Alex Espinoza, Neonatologist

In Neonatology, we provide intensive care medicine for newborn infants. I have learned to understand and appreciate the rapid physiologic changes occurring during birth and in the immediate post-birth period of life. I appreciate the continuum of development and am constantly learning more about this fascinating aspect of life.

And like others in pediatric care — no matter what our role — I like babies!

I became interested in science and did well in junior and senior high school science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) classes. I also have two older cousins in medicine, their careers were an inspiration to me. I recognized that I could engage both an interest and a goal in medical studies and took the educational route to prepare me to be a physician.

I am a professional interested in the best possible outcome for all my patients and their families. I respect the challenges that the family is facing when their infant comes into my care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). It can be very confusing and scary having an infant in the NICU. My team and I quickly introduce ourselves and our roles and how we can guide them through the care that their infant requires.

Many of the infants I see will have difficulties that make the transition to independent survival difficult. Some infants will have one or more severe life-threatening conditions that require immediate care from an entire team of newborn care providers, including physicians, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, and many other professionals. Other infants will have problems that will resolve like mild feeding issues, respiratory instability, temperature control, and newborn jaundice

My tiny patients will receive a careful and thorough assessment of their medical needs and a thoughtful plan of care. Their parents can expect honest, direct, and compassionate recommendations, with supportive guidance for the care of their newborn child.

What brings me the most joy in my work is a successful outcome, but even minor triumphs and improvements in health are appreciated. Most importantly, knowing that our parents leave our NICU feeling their infant received the best medical care possible brings me great satisfaction.

When I am not working, I like being outdoors, walking, hiking, cycling, and camping. I love being with my family. In the last few years, my wife and I have started to travel quite a bit; we look forward to doing that again.