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Your Trusted Pediatric Care Partner in Kansas City
Health Care for Children has been dedicated to the well-being of children in Kansas City and surrounding communities since our founding. Our team of board-certified pediatricians provides comprehensive care, from newborn visits to young adulthood, with a focus on timely, compassionate, and affordable services. We operate six days a week, including evening hours, to accommodate busy families and ensure sick children receive same-day care. Recognized as a Patient Centered Medical Home, we coordinate care through a team-based approach, emphasizing preventive care, chronic condition management, and patient education.

Our affiliation with Children's Mercy strengthens our ability to deliver specialized care when needed, while our commitment to cultural sensitivity and family-centered practices ensures every patient feels valued. With four dedicated providers and extended hours, we strive to be the trusted medical home families rely on for generations.
Services
Newborn Care Immunizations Sports Physicals Wellness Exams Lactation Support Sick Child Visits Chronic Condition Management Prenatal Consultations Ear Infection Treatment Developmental Screenings
Highlights and features
  • We offer same-day appointments for sick children, including Saturdays.
  • Our providers are board-certified pediatricians with extensive experience.
  • Recognized as a Patient Centered Medical Home for coordinated care.
  • We operate six days a week with evening hours for family convenience.
  • Affiliated with Children's Mercy for specialized care referrals.
Associations and certifications
  • Patient Centered Medical Home
Services
Wellness Exams
Our comprehensive wellness exams monitor growth, development, and immunization status for children from infancy through young adulthood. These visits include developmental screenings, nutritional guidance, and preventive care to ensure optimal health. Our providers emphasize patient education to help families maintain healthy lifestyles.
Immunizations
We provide all recommended childhood vaccines to protect against preventable diseases. Our team follows CDC guidelines and offers vaccine education to address parental concerns. Immunization records are maintained to ensure compliance with school and activity requirements.
Sick Child Visits
Same-day appointments for acute illnesses like ear infections, strep throat, and fevers are available six days a week. Our providers diagnose and treat common childhood ailments promptly to minimize discomfort and recovery time. Evening hours accommodate working parents.
Lactation Support
Certified lactation consultants offer personalized guidance for breastfeeding challenges, including latch issues and milk supply concerns. We provide education and resources to support successful breastfeeding journeys for new mothers.
Sports Physicals
Pre-participation physicals ensure children meet health requirements for school sports. These exams assess cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal function, and overall readiness for athletic activities. We complete required documentation for school compliance.
People
Theresa Tessa Rinker
Pediatrician
Dr. Rinker is a board-certified pediatrician dedicated to providing compassionate care for children. With expertise in preventive medicine and chronic disease management, she emphasizes family-centered care and patient education.
Alex Flanagan
Pediatrician
Dr. Flanagan specializes in pediatric acute care and developmental screenings. He focuses on building trust with young patients and guiding families through childhood health challenges with evidence-based practices.
Kelsey Freshour
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Certified pediatric nurse practitioner with experience in newborn care and adolescent health. She prioritizes listening to family concerns and creating personalized care plans for each child's unique needs.
Alexandria Wasinger
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Ms. Wasinger provides holistic care for children, specializing in wellness visits and chronic condition management. She advocates for preventive care and empowers families to make informed health decisions.
Questions
When should I choose a pediatrician for my unborn child?
We recommend selecting a pediatrician during your second or third trimester to ensure immediate newborn care and scheduled first check-ups.
Do you offer same-day appointments for sick children?
Yes, we provide same-day appointments for acute illnesses six days a week, including Saturday mornings.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept most major insurance plans. Contact our office for specific details about your coverage and reimbursement options.
Are evening appointments available?
Yes, we offer evening hours two days a week for working families' convenience.
Do you provide lactation support services?
Yes, our certified lactation consultants offer personalized breastfeeding guidance and problem-solving assistance for new mothers.
Can I meet my child's pediatrician before birth?
Yes, we offer prenatal consultations to meet providers, tour the clinic, and ask questions about newborn care.
Reviews (4)
Amanda Applegate
Aug 16, 2021 Report
The doctors are only in it for themselves. They dont want to give you an actual answer on COVID vaccinations and the effectiveness.
Ma Dy
Aug 03, 2021 Report
My child received a vaccine too early at this practice requiring him to have to get a repeat vaccination for school. Furthermore, they wanted to charge for a whole doctor visit for their mistake just to get a vaccine. As a medical professional myself I took my child and business to a different office and the difference is night and day in the services and care received.
Abigail Smith
Jan 14, 2020 Report
Wow! What a great office. All of the Drs are amazing and highly talented. We learn something new every time we go there from Dr. John, he will diagnose and educate. Dr Rinker is our primary and I feel like she genuinely cares about all of her patients on a personal level. They have taken care of my siblings since birth and now take care of my baby boy who is 6 months. Also the staff is awesome! I trust them entirely. 5 out of 5 stars!
Jeff Somers
Dec 30, 2018 Report
This is hands down the best pediatric establishment that my family has used. The front desk is always friendly and helpful. The nurses remember the kids and are very patient and the Doctors are second to none. Thank you for everything and taking good care of the kids.