June 17, 2024 2:00 p.m.
Dr. Rivera-Spoljaric
Pediatric pulmonology is a subspecialty of pediatrics, which is itself a specialty in medicine. The training to become a pediatric pulmonologist starts after you complete a residency. Some specialists choose a private practice, while others may work for a hospital or university. Most pulmonologists work in a hands-on role with patients.
Katherine Rivera-Spoljaric, MD, a Washington University pediatric pulmonologist at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, talked about three areas of care that a pulmonologist provides to their pediatric patients.
- Pulmonologists frequently work in clinics. They do both inpatient and outpatient care.
- Pulmonologists also work as consultants for other pediatricians. They treat chest illnesses and their symptoms.
- They provide a variety of testing. This can include performing a bronchoscopy. This test is done under anesthesia, allowing an inside look at the lungs.
Dr. Rivera-Spoljaric is a member of the Division of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonary Medicine. She is the Medical Director of the Multidisciplinary Technology Dependent Child Clinic and also provides consultative services at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Specialty Hospital. Her research interests include childhood asthma and technology dependent children. Originally from Puerto Rico, Dr. Rivera-Spoljaric spends much of her free time with her 3 children. They enjoy swimming, going to the park, and exploring local St. Louis attractions like The Magic House and City Museum.
