Pediatricians
Building a Foundation for Lifelong Health
As a Central Oregon pediatrics provider, your child's well-being is our top priority. For over 45 years, we’ve built a reputation for outstanding medical care, friendly service, and comprehensive support for pediatric patients and their families in the region. Our team of exceptional board-certified pediatricians, with specialized training and deep experience across all ages of childhood, is dedicated to every stage, from welcoming newborns to guiding teenagers through adolescence.
Owned by Doctors and Pediatric Experts
COPA focuses solely on pediatric medicine, making us the region's largest dedicated pediatric group. We're not a hospital or a multi-specialty clinic, but a clinic designed specifically for families with kids, locally owned by the very doctors and pediatric experts who see your child. This commitment allows us to provide inclusive, high quality, and exceptional care and pediatric services for every kid in our community of Central Oregon.
Meet the COPA Pediatricians in Bend and Redmond
BRENDA HEDGES, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Pediatric Residency
- University of California San Diego Medical School
- University of California Berkley
With both parents and my patients, I try to emphasize preventive measures for keeping kids healthy, such as healthy eating, staying active, and practicing good safety at home.
I really enjoy teaching kids about how their body works, what’s going on when they are sick, and what steps they can take to feel better.
Throughout my career as a pediatrician, I’ve learned to listen intently to my patients and help them learn to advocate for their own health. My great joy as a physician is watching my patients grow into confident, healthy young adults.
CAROLINE GUTMANN, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- University of California Davis Pediatric Residency
- University of Vermont College of Medicine
- University of Oregon
- Bryn Mawr College
My primary goal as a physician is to maintain positive relationships with my patients and their families to support wellness throughout their entire childhood journey.
I work hard to provide easy-to-understand explanations and develop a good rapport with children. One way I do that is to listen intently and watch their behaviors carefully. Every child is unique and needs to be met where they are in their stage of life.
I love being a pediatrician, and here’s what I believe!
- I believe in the safety of vaccines, car seats, and helmets.
- Make sure your kid plays outside every day
- Enjoy nature. Let them get dirty!
- Balls and bicycles!
- No screen time before they’re 2 years old.
- No cell phone until high school. I know…gasp! Ok, late middle school if you absolutely have to.
- No electronics in the bedroom at night.
- Chores!
- Teach “please” and “thank you.”
- Pay attention, but don’t micromanage.
- Eat meals together. Talk. Turn off the TV.
- Practice kindness and respect
- Help others.
- Laugh and play.
- Do your best.
- Enjoy your kids!
When I’m not at COPA, I’m traveling, skiing, biking, backpacking, and running with my dog. I also love to hunt for morels. My greatest joy is my son, who makes me laugh every day.
ERIN GARZA, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- University of Washington – Seattle Children’s Hospital Pediatric Residency
- Michigan State College of Human Medicine
- University of California – Berkeley
I believe it is truly hard to have a bad day while working as a pediatrician at Central Oregon Pediatric Associates (COPA).
Certainly, there can be sad times, but the daily smiles, laughter, and stories make each day special.
As a pediatrician, I know my job is to be present in the moment with every child to ensure they get my priority medical attention. With families, I work hard to communicate in ways that everyone in the child’s sphere has a clear understanding of the needs of that child.
I have my own family, which I love dearly, and that makes me better understand the challenges faced by patients and their families.
JENNIFER LACHMAN, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Western University of Health Science
- University of New Mexico Pediatric Residency
- Sackler School of Medicine
- Brown University
It goes almost without saying that specializing in pediatric medicine means being focused on taking care of children. However, as a board-certified pediatrician, I realize that pediatric medicine is about taking care of the whole family—it’s a family-centered approach to health and wellness so the child can thrive individually and the entire family can thrive together.
As a caregiver, I enjoy the beauty and challenges of all the different ages and stages. In particular, I get a great deal of joy with my patients in early childhood. It’s the age of imagination and children trying to make sense of the challenges of living in an imperfect world.
I appreciate that parents work hard to balance what I recommend for their children with the reality of a hectic and complex lifestyle. I know that parents try their best to care for their family, and my role is to listen and support in any way I can.
My favorite part of being a pediatrician is playing a role in my patients and their families’ journey as they grow and change over time. I love living in a world where magic is often real when seen through the eyes of a child. Children never cease to amaze me with the ways they are able to impact my own outlook.
When I’m not at COPA, I enjoy spending time with my family and doing almost anything outdoors. Family rafting trips are a summer highlight. Otherwise, you might see me out on the trails jogging with my dogs, biking, or skiing.
JOHN PEOPLES, MD, FAAP
(HE/HIM)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford Pediatric Chief Residency/ Pediatric Residency
- Weil Cornell Medical College, New York
- Dartmouth College
Yo hablo español
I feel truly fortunate to work with families and children every day, hearing their funny stories and fresh take on life.
COPA is a wonderful medical clinic, and I believe strongly in the whole child approach we practice – supporting not only the medical issues of children, but also providing a foundation for a child’s educational, developmental and mental health needs.
I believe in working closely with families to shape a care plan for their children. This often means following up by phone or electronic messaging to make sure our plan of care is on track.
I have been an ardent supporter of healthcare access for all children, leading community health and developmental programs since 1998.
I speak medical Spanish and am inspired by our Latino community here in Central Oregon. I am proud that COPA has been a leader in supporting families in which English is not their first language.
At the end of the day, Dr. Peoples, with his wife, son, and crazy dogs, enjoys hiking, travel, and music.
DANA PERRYMAN, MD, FAAP
(SHE/THEY)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- University of Arizona Pediatric Residency
- University of Florida Medical School
- Rollins College, Florida
Yo hablo español
As a pediatrician, I feel it’s paramount to listen intently, be in the moment, and be compassionate. When I teach patients and parents, I do it in a way that offers common sense or practicality in my explanations or recommendations. I encourage my patients with unfailing support and work hard to connect with them where they are.
I love it when the lightbulb goes off, and the patient or parent makes a connection, whether it’s about feeding, behavior, digestion, or just about anything. Watching kids grow and develop and seeing parents learn about themselves throughout the parenting journey is one of the best parts of my job. I love chatting and joking with patients and parents – bringing humor to awkward conversations like puberty. And I love having Latinx families and LGBTQ patients or families in my practice.
When not at COPA I enjoy hiking along a river, finding solitude beside the water or under a shade tree and smelling vanilla and spice of warm ponderosa bark. When my amazing dog is off leash and enjoying the water, she is pure joy.
I read historical fiction, non- fiction, young adult fiction and Powell’s Books is my all-time FAVORITE store. My favorite treat is a chocolate chip cookie with oatmeal and pecans; my daughter’s recipe is fabulous. I also enjoy a variety of foods from around the world, including Mexican, Thai, and Ethiopian.
Family is very important to me. My wife and I are blessed with a blended family of five becoming-adult children. Being a stepmom and mother of twins has brought great life lessons and informs my practice. Our kids are amazing and I could talk for hours with and about them. They have endured the range of my dry to dorky humor and help me stay up to date on trending vocabulary and memes. I also love to visit my parents who live about two hours away.
I still watch a lot of sports, maybe because I played softball and other sports growing up. I like to snowboard on the blue runs at Bachelor on a bluebird day (who doesn’t!) And, a rare treat for me is getting away to relax at the Oregon coast.
MEGAN KARNOPP, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Stanford University Pediatric Residency
- OHSU School of Medicine
- University of Utah
- Mt. View High School Bend, OR (Go Cougars!)
I am thrilled to pursue my passion as a Pediatrician in my hometown of Bend. One of my favorite parts of my job is forming lasting relationships with families. It is truly a joy to participate in the care of a child from birth through their teenage years.
I love to meet new babies and their families and to help them navigate those magical years of early childhood.
I grew up an athlete and was an NCAA skier in college. I trained at Stanford and worked in their adolescent clinic after residency. These experiences have inspired a special interest in sports and adolescent medicine.
When I am not in the Clinic you can find me skiing, hiking, camping, biking and/or doing something outside with my family. I am grateful that my two daughters and husband are making more memories with me in this amazing place where I had such a wonderful childhood.
LOGAN CLAUSEN, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Clinical Assistant Professor, Western University of Health Sciences
- University of Utah Pediatric Residency
- OHSU School of Medicine
- University of Colorado at Boulder
Yo hablo español
I love being a pediatrician and think it’s the best job in the world. I love establishing a relationship with kids early on and watching their amazing growth and development.
I love being there for questions and concerns and celebrating the victories, large and small. I also love that every visit, just like every child, is unique, and it’s a wonderful challenge to make that visit the best possible experience for the patient.
Kids are incredible, and helping them develop into the fantastic, unique humans they are is an amazing experience.
When not at work, I’m usually outside with my husband and three kids. We love skiing, biking, camping, paddle boarding, and playing with our two dogs.
When inside, I often have my nose in a book and love to hear about what you are reading when you come to the clinic.
I also love to hear about your fun crafts or DIY projects, as I am often neck-deep in some sort of crazy project.
MARY ROGERS, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Oregon Health & Science University Pediatric Residency
- Creighton University School of Medicine
- Fordham University
I’m excited to be part of the COPA team and believe it truly does “take a village to raise a child”. I just love to be part of that journey with families.
Along with the relationship that develops over years with a family, it’s the diversity of pediatrics that attracted me to this specialty.
I enjoy celebrating the individual developmental accomplishments of each of my patients and every aspect of those visits, from well child checkups to adolescent medicine.
In my practice, I see a variety of conditions, including chronic pediatric illness. My goal for all my patients’ is their good physical and mental health and overall well-being.
I have a special interest in lactation, newborns, and working with new families. On the other end of the spectrum, I also really enjoy adolescents and young adults. Tucked in the middle, I love celebrating children of all ages and encouraging healthy life choices.
When not being a kid-doctor these days, you’ll likely find me fully immersed in mom-life and family life. My family tends to spend our time away in the outdoors, playing in snow or dirt and all of what Central Oregon has to offer.
JEFF MEYROWITZ, MD, FAAP
(HE/HIM)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Oregon Health & Science University Pediatric Residency
- Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine
- University of Miami
It is a true pleasure to provide parents with confidence and guidance as they start their journey as new parents. Part of the privilege of being a pediatrician is watching a child grow from a newborn into a young adult, leaving for the next phase of life.
I understand the importance of connecting and communicating with both the child, as well as their parents, in order to best ensure their health and happiness. Having a family’s trust is something I do not take lightly. I truly respect the importance of a pediatrician’s recommendation.
I was born in Michigan and went to undergraduate school at Indiana University and the University of Miami. After moving briefly to Oregon, I returned to Michigan to complete my medical school training at Michigan State University. From there, I returned to Oregon to attend a residency at OHSU, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.
My family and I then were fortunate to come upon an amazing opportunity to move to Central Oregon and become a part of Central Oregon Pediatric Associates.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, trail running, mountain biking, and floating rivers.
LESLIE RUST, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Children’s Hospital of Colorado Pediatric Residency
- University of Tennessee School of Medicine
- Rhodes College
For me, what makes pediatrics the absolute best specialty is the opportunity to see my patients grow and develop into their amazing, awesome, and unique selves.
I love meeting parents at the beginning of this journey, partnering with them to make the best choices for their family and child, and watching those kids grow into young adults. That relationship is what makes my days in the clinic the best.
I place a high value on thoroughly explaining treatment care options and collaborating with parents and patients on medical decisions. I feel that education is the key to ongoing wellness, positive developmental milestones, and disease management.
Parents are their child’s primary advocate and they know them best! Respecting the parent’s perspective is critically important as we collaborate to make decisions. With older kids, I really listen to concerns and spend time developing a relationship.
Outside of work, I enjoy trail running, mountain biking, and taking road trips with my husband and our lovable and crazy Australian Shepherd.
DANA ANGELOS, DO, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- Oregon Health and Science University Pediatric Residency
- Western University of Health Sciences – Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
- Santa Clara University
I knew I wanted to be a pediatrician at a young age and thoroughly enjoy promoting healthy lifestyles for every infant, child and adolescent that I care for.
I have a collaborative approach with parents, which I believe works best on behalf of the child’s health. I’m known as being approachable and believe that listening intently is the best way to learn about the child’s health.
Being a pediatrician is one of the best jobs I can imagine because you get to play with children all day, making them smile and feel better. Children are so resilient, and even when they don’t feel good, I can make them laugh. I feel that kids reciprocate by making me laugh as well!
When I’m not at COPA, I enjoy spending time with my husband, three daughters and golden retriever. On the weekends we are often exploring all that Central Oregon has to offer including hikes around the area, floating the river, and hitting up Mt. Bachelor while teaching our daughters how to ski.
MARLA RENDELL, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- University of Washington Pediatric Residency
- OHSU School of Medicine
- University of Oregon
I believe in a team approach to health care, with both parents and children being an important part of the child’s healthcare decisions.
I base my recommendations on the most current medical knowledge to guide kids and their families toward better physical and emotional health. My role is to help kids grow and thrive in their environment and to give them the best chance at being happy, healthy adults.
As a pediatrician, I love caring for kids – meeting them where they are in their development and seeing them grow from newborns to toddlers, through grade school, and into adolescence. I enjoy helping them and their parents navigate all the bumps along the way and being another trusted adult for kids so they can turn to their physician in times of trouble.
I really enjoy working with the outstanding team at COPA!
When not in the clinic I love to hike, snowboard, backpack, and attend the live outdoor music gatherings. You’ll likely catch me playing with my French bulldog. I also do a great deal of reading.
JULIE ANSBAUGH, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery Pediatrician
- University of Minnesota Pediatric Residency
- University of Colorado School of Medicine
- University of Utah
Yo hablo español
I feel humbled and privileged to be a part of a child’s growth and development and support families through that journey in the field of pediatrics.
I’m passionate about cooperative care with patients and families through thoughtful communication and long-term relationships.
It’s a true pleasure to work with the COPA medical team and family of caregivers. I bring my full energy into the clinic every day as I spend one on one time with my patients, and do all I can to promote both physical and mental wellness.
Growing up in northern Utah, I feel at home in the high-mountain desert climate of Bend.
I love spending time outdoors with my husband and our two little ones. Our time in Minnesota fostered a love of Nordic skiing, which continues on the wonderful trails here in Central Oregon.
MATTHEW LOHR, MD, FAAP
(HE/HIM)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- University of Colorado Pediatric Residency
- University of Louisville School of Medicine
- Centre College (Danville, KY)
Yo hablo español
Growing up with type 1 diabetes ultimately led me to pediatrics. As a child, I was passionate about playing sports. Together with my medical team, my family and I created a health plan that allowed me to successfully manage diabetes while playing basketball at the NCAA level. It is my goal to work alongside families to help children achieve their goals and aspirations, regardless of unique health circumstances.
Medicine is a team sport. I believe it’s important to incorporate families’ values and backgrounds with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines to form a holistic health plan for your child. I speak Spanish, and am passionate about providing comprehensive medical care to Spanish-speaking patients and families.
In my free time, I enjoy being outside with my wife, our two children, and our dog, Luna. We particularly love hiking, skiing, biking, and spending time by the water. I also enjoy soccer, basketball, photography and a good book.
IRIS HAN, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certification: American Board of Pediatrics
- Medical Degree: Sanford School of Medicine, South Dakota, 1996
- Pediatric Residency: Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN 1999
- Membership: Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics
Connecting with children is my superpower.
Caring for infants and children has been a lifelong passion and I bring 25 years of general pediatric experience to COPA.
Entrusting the care of your child to a medical professional is a very important decision. I strive to listen carefully, because parents/caregivers who know the child best can unlock the diagnosis most of the time. I know how confusing medical terms can be, so it's important to me that I speak in a way that both the parent and the child will understand.
I was born in Berkeley, California but spent most of my childhood in Melbourne, Australia. (I even ate Vegemite when I was there, which was my first act of culinary bravery.) However, I sadly lost my Aussie accent when my family moved to Rapid City, South Dakota, where I spent my teenage years.
My house is shared with my husband and teenage son. My oldest daughter has flown the nest and is pursuing pre-med at U of O (go Ducks!) Another important family member is my Golden Irish retriever, Juno. Ask me for a dog pic, I have a lot.
Our family loves outdoor adventures, especially river rafting trips. A long-term travel goal is a multi-week raft trip on the Grand Canyon. I am a movie buff, and a sucker for a good romantic comedy. One of my favorite movies is Pride and Prejudice, specifically the one with Colin Firth. When I am not adventuring in the great outdoors, you will find me curled up with a novel. One of my guilty pleasures is eating ice cream, specifically Haagen-Dazs Coffee Chip.
You will find me working weeknights as a member of COPA Kids Care Urgent Care Team. I’m proud to provide evidence-based pediatric care backed by the American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). I care deeply about vaccinations, and I promote preventive health.
A quote I like to live by is: “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do” by the poet Rumi. Having a strong passion for what I do has given me the opportunity to create meaningful relationships with patients and challenge myself every day with something new.
KAREN ORTIZ, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- University of Utah Pediatric Residency
- University of Utah Pediatric Internship
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
- University of New Mexico
Yo hablo español
One of the best things about being a pediatrician is the opportunity to make genuine connections with children and their families to support their growth, development, and health journeys. I love pediatrics! I have a passion for taking care of children of all ages, their parents, families, and other support systems.
From sweet newborns to active toddlers, imaginative young children, and intelligent, curious, and socially conscious pre-teens and teenagers, transformations in development are a privilege to witness. I have nurtured two children of my own and now enjoy seeing them navigate their worlds as young adults.
Kids are amazing and strong! One thing I really enjoy as a pediatrician is listening to children and their families, understanding their concerns and symptoms, determining where they are with growth, developmental milestones, illness burdens, and emotional and other challenges, and then partnering with them to foster an understanding of how the body works, address illness and concerns, advise about prevention, and supporting them to identify and meet their health and wellness goals.
When not in the clinic, I like to have fun by riding my road, gravel, fat, mountain, and tandem bikes with my wife. You might also find me exploring the nearby mountains and deserts, bike packing along one of Oregon’s scenic bikeways, hiking with our dog, Fiona, fly fishing, or reading. I am an avid reader of all types of books including young adult fiction and enjoy comparing notes with patients on best reads. I also enjoy cooking and love chocolate.
JACK BURGESON, MD, FAAP
(HE/HIM)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- University of Utah Pediatric Residency and Chief Residency
- Indiana University School of Medicine
- DePauw University
CARISSA COUSINS, MD, MPH, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- University of Florida Pediatric Residency
- University of Florida College of Medicine
- University of South Florida
As a pediatrician, I believe children have the most wonderful stories to tell, and there's so much we can learn from listening to them. I truly enjoy spending time with children of all ages and value the insight it provides into their health. Plus, I love when kids keep me up to date on the latest trends in youth culture.
I understand that there are often many ways to approach a health issue, and I enjoy working collaboratively with my patients, their parents, and caregivers to create the best care plan for everyone involved. I know medical conditions can feel overwhelming and confusing, so I take pride in explaining things clearly and making sure all questions are addressed.
I'm also deeply committed to providing quality, accessible healthcare to all children, especially those who are most vulnerable.
When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me enjoying the outdoors around Sisters, whether I’m running, hiking, biking or Nordic skiing on forest trails. Having grown up in Ohio and Florida, I’m grateful for everything the mountains offer. I also enjoy reading and love diving into all kinds of literature. At home, my husband and I are entertained by Sparky, our goofy black lab-corgi mix, who has a special talent for stealing socks.
MAKENZIE HAWKINS, MD
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified: American Board of Pediatrics
- Masters in Public Health: University of Utah
- Medical Degree: University of Utah
- Pediatric Residency: University of Utah
I chose pediatrics because of the incredible opportunity to build lasting relationships with my patients and their families. I strive to be a trusted partner, providing comprehensive care that considers their unique needs. You are the expert in your child! I’m here to help navigate their health journey as your child grows. By focusing on the whole child, we can make informed decisions to promote optimal health and happiness.
While I love caring for children of all ages, I have a special interest in supporting new parents and their infants. With additional training in breastfeeding medicine, I’m dedicated to helping families achieve their breastfeeding goals!
While I am new to Central Oregon, my husband grew up here and we are thrilled to now be able to call Bend home! My free time is spent with my husband, daughter, dogs and chickens. If I’m not out enjoying all that Central Oregon has to offer, you’ll likely find me with my nose in a book.
Jennifer Schroeder, MD
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified: American Board of Pediatrics
- Chief Resident: Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
- Pediatric Residency: Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU)
- Medical Degree: Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, Nebraska
- Undergraduate: University of Portland, Portland, Oregon
I have wanted to be a pediatrician for as long as I can remember. As a child, I viewed my own pediatrician as a warm, compassionate role model – someone who did everything possible to keep me and his other patients healthy. Today, I strive to be that same source of care and reassurance for my own patients.
There is no greater honor than to be entrusted with the care of a child. As a mother myself, I understand the worry and fear that often come with raising children, as well as the immense joy and reward. My goal is to partner with you, walking hand-in-hand throughout every stage of your child's journey.
While I truly enjoy caring for children of all ages, I have a special interest in newborns and their unique medical needs. I delight in toddlers and young children – their imagination and enthusiasm inspire me daily. As the mother of two teenage boys, I understand the challenges of adolescence firsthand and am honored to support both parents and teens through these years.
I've been practicing as a general pediatrician in Bend for the past 13 years and feel incredibly fortunate to serve this community. Outside of work, you'll often find me in my role as "taxi driver" for my two sons or enjoying all that Central Oregon has to offer. Our family lives on a hobby farm with two Bernese Mountain dogs, four cats, eight chickens, and six alpacas. I'm also a huge football fan (go Ducks!) and love golfing, hiking, yoga, and getting lost in a good book. My idea of paradise? A warm, calm day on the Oregon Coast with no plans at all.
Your Partner in Pediatric Allergy Immunology
Keeping your child healthy starts with a strong immune system. COPA’s dedicated pediatric immunologist, Dr. Hostetler, works tirelessly to ensure your child receives the best possible care for allergies, asthma, and other immune system conditions.
HALEY HOSTETLER, MD, FAAP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Board Certified Allergist/Clinical Immunologist
- Board Certified Pediatrician
- Board Certified Internal Medicine
- Adjunct Asst Professor, OHSU
- Adjunct Asst Professor, Duke University
- St. Charles Newborn Nursery
- Duke University Allergy/Immunology/Pediatrics/Internal Medicine
- Oregon Health and Science University, MD
- Tulane University, MS
- University of Oregon, BS
I am thrilled to return to my home state of Oregon to pursue my passion as a Pediatric Allergist and Clinical Immunologist in Central Oregon and beyond. I specialize in caring for both children and adults with allergic and immunologic conditions including disorders of the airway. I enjoy caring for patients with common diseases such as food allergies, asthma, eczema, drug allergy, hives and seasonal allergies.
It’s of utmost importance to me as a pediatrician to celebrate with families when their child thrives, and we journey together through challenging times. I am grateful for the training and mentorship I received at Duke University as a trainee and faculty member, where I received specialized training in disorders of the immune system and the management of recurrent infections. This experience included the delicate transition of pediatric patients into adulthood through long-term relationships. I feel fortunate that families entrust their children to my care, and I love being a part of their team.
Outside of the clinic, I enjoy anything outside with my husband, young son, and German Shorthaired Pointer, Statler. We especially enjoy visits with my family in Sisters, OR, and exploring the Bend food and coffee scene!
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners
Heike Huchler FNP, DNP
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
- Chamberlain College of Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice,
- Florida Atlantic University College of Nursing
I love pediatrics and enjoy listening to the kids’ stories and how they perceive the world. My biggest wish is to help them grow up healthy and active and achieve their dreams, whatever they might be.
I am a strong advocate for healthy nutrition and disease prevention, which includes staying active and on schedule for immunizations.
As a younger Pediatric Registered Nurse in Germany, I saw that kids are often more resilient than we think. After my experience abroad, I’m happy to be in Bend, and I truly value the opportunity to help care for your children.
As a recent empty nester, I’m still learning what to do with my free time. I enjoy hiking, skiing, soaking up the sun, baking, and knitting. I also love it when my daughters come to visit me in gorgeous Central Oregon.
Lindsay Fredrickson, MSN, CPNP-PC, IBCLC
(SHE/HER)
Over the years, I have come to find that some days are hard, but there are no bad days when you are doing what you love, and I truly love what I do. My passion is helping to promote healthy, happy lifestyles for infants, children, and adolescents. Every situation has unique needs, and I enjoy working with each family while getting to know how I may solve problems and ensure they receive the best care for the journey.
I am also an international board-certified lactation consultant and love helping families navigate through any feeding concerns.
When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, two children, and dog. We are excited to get up to the mountains and learn how to ski and snowboard. I also love to travel and have found a new passion for cruising!
Physician Associates
Carissa Honeycutt, MS, PA-C
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Certified Physician Associate
- Masters in Physician Assistant Studies at Pacific University
- University of North Carolina
While pursuing my dream career as a physician associate, I was able to travel extensively and serve a variety of communities all over Oregon and the rest of the world, including Hawaii. These experiences have given me a unique, multicultural perspective on pediatrics, which I feel I bring to my interactions with patients and families at COPA.
I’m well versed in medical Spanish and was fortunate to have Spanish immersion in Costa Rica and Ecuador in my early years. One of the highlights of my training in Ecuador (which sparked my love for pediatrics) was my work in the Public Health System.
I have my best role models through my COPA family and cherish the opportunity to practice in the COPA legacy.
Even though I love to travel, I’ve settled down in Bend with my family. We love spending time outdoors and watching my son grow.
Maria Benavides, MS, PA-C
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Certified Physician Associate
- OHSU Masters in Physician Assistant Studies
My commitment to you as a patient, family member, and care provider is to listen. As a third-generation primary care provider, I was taught at an early age that this is one of the most important skills in medicine.
There are many dynamics to caring for a child’s health and my goal is to create a partnership with my patients and families so they can make the best choices.
One of the joys of working in pediatrics is watching the patient grow and develop over the years, from their very first word to the challenges of being a teenager.
The practice of Pediatrics requires a continued passion for learning, and it is inspiring to work with the COPA family, which is so invested in facing the health challenges of our community.
When not working, my family and friends love to camp, raft, and attempt to garden in our challenging climate. After 20 years in Central OR, we are finally building a greenhouse!
Taylor Wahl, PA-C
(SHE/HER)
CREDENTIALS
- Certified Physician Associate
- OHSU Masters of Physician Assistant Studies
- B.S. Oregon State University
After a few years away, I’m happy to be back in Oregon with the privilege of serving the Central Oregon community.
One of my favorite things about being a pediatric provider is forming close relationships with families and watching my patients grow. I believe in a collaborative approach, working with my patients and their families to help their children thrive.
I’m committed to providing compassionate care to my patients and listening to parents’ concerns. From newborns to graduating teens, I find joy in every stage of a child’s development and appreciate the unique challenges that each age can bring.
I’ve always been passionate about working with the pediatric population; I focused my clinical training in a variety of pediatric specialties. I have a special interest in newborns, lactation, and adolescent care; however, I find working with all pediatric age groups very rewarding.
When I’m not at COPA, I love spending time with my husband, young daughter, and corgi. I enjoy home renovation projects, traveling, camping, and photography.
Comprehensive Expertise for Well-Rounded Care
In addition to our exceptional pediatricians, COPA offers a comprehensive range of additional licensed providers to deliver complete pediatric care for your child of the highest quality. This integrated approach ensures that children of all ages have access to the right specialists within the familiar and comfortable environment of COPA. Our Central Oregon pediatrics clinic understands the importance of seamless care coordination. Our team works together to deliver the best care and possible outcomes for your child's health at every office visit.