islandcoastpediatrics

Dr Troast Begins a New Journey

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 19:19:51 GMT

The RV is revved up with the new e-bike in tow, Dr Troast is set to begin a new chapter in life. We send him off with our heartfelt gratitude for all those decades of service to our Southwest Florida families. You will be deeply missed.

Dear Patients and Friends,

After many years of practicing medicine and a gaining a few more gray hairs than I care to admit, the time has come for me to hang up my stethoscope and officially retire, effective May 21st, 2026.

When I started this practice, I could not have imagined the incredible community that would grow from it and it has proven to have been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Over the years, you’ve trusted me with your children’s health, your stories and sometimes your best (and worst) jokes. The relationships with you is what has mattered the most.

What began as a small idea turned into a lifetime of amazing connections and each of you has been part of that story. It has truly been one of the greatest privileges of my life to care for your family, to share in your stories, and to earn your trust over the years. While I may be retiring, the practice is in excellent hands. Island Coast Pediatrics providers and staff will continue to provide you with the same thoughtful, dedicated care you deserve and I have complete confidence in them you will be taken care of.

As for me, I’m looking forward to more time to begin new journeys, travel and make new memories. I will also be taking some of the advice I’ve been giving all these years about reducing stress. I may even try to become a better patient myself, though I make no promises.

Thank you for letting me be your doctor. I will truly miss you and I will carry these years with me always. Wishing you all continued health, happiness, and just enough exercise and new adventures to keep things interesting.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Darrell L. Troast, DO
Founder of Island Coast Pediatrics, May 1st, 1990

Why Your Newborn Needs Vitamin K Shot

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 19:18:05 GMT

As a standard of care, a single Vitamin K shot is recommended for all newborns within the first hours of life to prevent fatal Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding, a potentially life-threatening condition in healthy infants that can cause serious bleeding, often from the nose, mouth, umbilical stump, or internally (brain, abdomen).

As a standard of care, a single Vitamin K shot is recommended for all newborns within the first hours of life to prevent fatal Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding, a potentially life-threatening condition in healthy infants that can cause serious bleeding, often from the nose, mouth, umbilical stump, or internally (brain, abdomen).

Babies are born with very little Vitamin K because it does not cross the placenta efficiently and a newborn’s intestine do not have the bacteria needed to produce Vitamin K, and breast milk contains only a small amount.

It has been a standard of care to give vitamin k shot to newborns since 1961. It is not a vaccine but a safe sterile solution of Vitamin K. There is no link to childhood cancer. The American Academy of Pediatrics continue to recommend the administration of Vitamin K in our new born to keep them safe from Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding.

From The American Academy of Pediatric’s HealthyChildren.Org:

What does vitamin K do?

Why babies aren't born with enough vitamin K?

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble nutrient that helps our bodies make blood clots. We need blot clots to stop bleeding. Vitamin K is important for keeping bones healthy too.
Adults and older children get vitamin K from food such as green, leafy vegetables, meat, dairy and eggs. The healthy bacteria in our intestines, which make up our microbiome , also produce some vitamin K.

Babies, though, have very little vitamin K in their bodies at birth. This puts them at risk for dangerous bleeding problems. Fortunately, it's easy to prevent VKDB with a vitamin K shot. The injection is given in your baby's thigh within 6 hours of birth.

One shot is all it takes to protect your baby from getting vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) . This is why, as pediatricians, we have recommended since 1961 that all newborns get a vitamin K shot at birth.

The two big reasons newborns need vitamin K:

They don't get much vitamin K from the mother during pregnancy. Unlike many other nutrients, vitamin K doesn't pass through the placenta very easily.
Babies' intestines don't have very many bacteria yet, so their bodies can't make enough vitamin K.

What is vitamin K deficiency bleeding?

Newborns who don't get a vitamin K shot and are low on the vitamin are are at risk of VKDB. This happens when a baby's blood can't make clots, and their body can't stop bleeding.

The bleeding can happen on the outside of the body. It can also happen inside the body where parents can't see it. A baby could be bleeding into their intestines or brain before their parents know anything is wrong. Brain bleeding happens in about half of all babies who develop VKDB, and it can lead to brain damage or death.

There are three types of vitamin K deficiency bleeding:

Early-onset: This begins within the first 24 hours after birth. It usually happens when the mother is taking certain medications that interfere with vitamin K.
Classical: This happens between 2 days and 1 week after birth. Doctors don't know exactly what causes most of these cases. Early-onset and classical VKDB occur in 1 in 60 to 1 in 250 newborns.
Late-onset: This happens between 1 week and 6 months after birth. It's rarer than early-onset or classical VKDB, occurring in 1 in 14,000 to 1 in 25,000 babies. Infants who didn't get a vitamin K shot at birth are 81 times more likely to develop late-onset VKDB than babies who do get the shot.

Cases of VKDB seem to be increasing. This is partly because more parents are refusing the vitamin K shot for their newborns. VKDB is fairly rare, so many parents aren't aware of how dangerous the effects of this disease can be.

Are vitamin K shots safe?

Yes, vitamin K shots are very safe. The vitamin K from the injection is stored in your baby's liver and released slowly over months. This gives your baby the vitamin K they need until they can start getting it from solid food and making it themselves.

You may have heard about a study from the 1990s about a possible link between the vitamin K shot and developing childhood cancer. This didn't only worry parents; doctors and scientists were concerned too. Since then, experts have done many different kinds of studies to verify this link. None of the studies have ever been able to find that link again.

(To continue reading click on link)

New ECG Requirement for High School Athletes

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:22:24 GMT

Starting with the 2026–2027 school year, Florida law (the " Second Chance Act ") requires 6th-12th grade student-athletes to have an Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) screening before participating in FHSAA-sanctioned sports. The mandate primarily targets incoming 9th graders and athletes new to the school, requiring documentation (EL1 form) for clearance.

Who Must Get Screened: All incoming 9th-grade student-athletes, and any student in grades 10–12 who has never previously participated in an FHSAA-sanctioned sport.
Returning Athletes: While not mandatory, returning athletes are strongly encouraged to get an ECG.
Documentation: A new one-page standardized form (often referred to as EL1 or included in the EL2 packet ) must be completed to confirm the ECG.
Exemptions: Parents may opt-out based on religious tenets or practices.
What it Covers: The, non-invasive, test checks the heart's electrical activity for hidden conditions that can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Validity: An EKG completed up to 2 years prior to the 2026-2027 school year will satisfy the requirement.

The Form (click to download):

Where to have it done:

The Lee County School District and Who We Play host heart screening events for future athletes. $20 donations are appreciated.
For upcoming events, visit https://www.whoweplayfor.org/heart-screening-registration or call 847-722-4659

Lee Health Youth Athlete EKG screening service (click here)
Golisano Outpatient Center at HealthPark Commons
6281 Bass Road, Suite 100
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-9400

Golisano Outpatient Center at the Sanctuary
8960 Colonial Center Drive
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-7200

Send us the results once completed so we can document completion in your child’s chart.
Please text results to 239 768 2111

We recommend using one of the locations above that offers free EKG screenings. If that isn’t possible, we can provide an order for the test elsewhere.

Contact ICPEDS to have EKG order (ask your health insurance if this is a covered test or not)

Measles Confirmed at Collier County

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:15:51 GMT

Update: 2/26/2026

Measles cases have climbed to 85 across two Gulf Coast counties, according to new data released by the Florida Department of Health.
Health officials report 83 cases in Collier County and two in Lee County, as the outbreak continues to spread weeks after it was first identified in late January.
(read more)

Update: 2/9/2026

Measles cases have been identified in Lee County and surrounding counties.
If your child is a 1 year old or older and have not received his Measles (MMR) vaccine yet or 4 years or older and have not completed 2 rounds of Measles (MMR) vaccines then please avail of our Measles Vaccine Clinic the soonest possible to give your child a fighting chance.
They are available at our clinic with daily appointments and extra clinics the next 2 weekends. Text us at (239)768-7337 to schedule your shot only visit or well visit if needed.

Measles is a highly contagious virus with a 90% infection rate among unvaccinated individuals exposed to it. Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.
As of late January 2026, at least 2 cases of measles have been confirmed at Ave Maria University in Collier County, prompting concerns of a potential outbreak (the first cases of measles in Collier County since 2016)

Understanding the Benefits of Vaccines

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:14:09 GMT

At Island Coast Pediatrics, we follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) vaccine recommendations to protect children from preventable diseases. These guidelines are established by experts to provide the most effective protection against preventable diseases. Vaccinations are a crucial part of pediatric care, safeguarding children from serious illnesses such as measles, mumps, and whooping cough. By following the AAP's schedule, we ensure that immunizations are administered at the optimal times for each child's age and development. Our team is dedicated to providing a safe and caring environment for your child's health care needs, and we are always available to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about vaccinations. Contact your pediatrician and visit our website to view the recommended immunization schedule:

Understanding the Benefits of Vaccines: Common Questions by American Academy of Pediatrics (click here to read)

Immunization Handout: o to 6 years old vaccine schedule (handout includes hyperlink about diseases and the vaccine design to prevent them)

Caring for Your Baby from the Very First Moments

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:13:02 GMT

That means when your baby is born, you’ll be welcomed and cared for by the same trusted pediatricians who will continue to guide your child’s health as they grow. From those first precious days in the hospital to every milestone that follows, we’re here for you and your family.

Newborn hospital visits
Personalized pediatric care
Continuity you can trust

Serving families in our community with compassion, dedication, and experience.
Island Coast Pediatrics – Caring for kids from day one.

Beware of counterfeit or "knock-off" car seats

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:10:57 GMT

A recent rise in counterfeit car seats for sale online can put your child’s safety at risk. These imitation products that may look like trusted brands but do not meet key safety standards. They are often made from low quality materials and don’t protect a child as they should in a crash.
Make sure your child’s car seat includes:

a federally required safety sticker
a five-point harness strap and side impact protection
minimum and maximum height requirements
an expiration date
manufacturer information
an owner’s manual and registration card

For more information on car seat brands, visit: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Car-Safety-Seats-Product-Listing.aspx

Back to School Tips

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:08:59 GMT

HealthyChildren.org provides the following health tips to help your child start this school year strong.

1. Prioritize the basics: sleep, exercise & nutrition:
Begin with the basics. Make sure your child eats nutritious meals, stays hydrated with water, and gets plenty of physical activity and sleep.
2. Stay up-to-date on checkups & immunizations:
If your child has not had a well-child checkup in the last year, schedule a back-to-school physical. They may also require a pre-participation (sports) exam if they will be playing a sport at school.
3. Tune in to your child's mental health:
Many children and teens have had mental health challenges over the past few years. Let your child know it's OK to talk about with you about how they're feeling.
4. Talk about racism, bullying & kindness:
Some children are absent from school because of racism, hate or bullying. Talk with your child and encourage them to seek help from a trusted adult if they are discriminated against or witness an act of bullying or discrimination against others.
5. Plan for mindful media use:
The change in routine is a good time to create or update your family media plan so you can help your child balance screen time with sleep, exercise and other healthy activities.
For helpful resources, visit: https://www.icpeds.com/Resources/Other-Resources

How To Survive Dropping Your Kid Off At College

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:05:18 GMT

Sending your child off to college, the military and trying to get prepared?

I am here to help you prepare yourself for this transition

I am Dr. Bruno, a pediatrician who was definetley underprepared for dropping my first son off at college. So I am going to try to do better for you. I will start with - it is not ok, but it will be.

I thought hard about what to call this blog and “breathe in… breathe out” came as a natural first choice. It brings us back to a tool you may have used (or at least learned) to bring this child into the world. Now you will need it to drop your heart off at college and walk away hoping you prepared them enough.

The first year is eye opening for everyone and there are many obstacles settling into dorm life, sharing a room and space with strangers ( soon to be friends you hope- ps that doesn’t always work out). That’s ok, it is all part of the navigation. Learning how to feed themselves 3 meals a day - college meal prep blog is helpful. Plan to pick up some basic cooking equipment that is allowed in their dorms and most schools usually have a meal plan required in their first year when they live on campus. Don’t worry, they won’t starve.

But those are the easy things - first you have to stop hyperventilating.

Breathe in… breathe out… repeat 4 times and take a 2 minute time out. You can do this! (read more)

Measles: What Parents Need to Know

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:54:18 GMT

"The childhood and adolescent immunization program in the United States led to a more than 99% decrease in measles cases since 1963. However, travelers visiting or returning to the United States from other countries can spread measles to people who are at risk and cause an outbreak." HealthyChildren.Org

Swim Safety Tips

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:52:10 GMT

The most common swimming-related illnesses are diarrhea, skin rashes, swimmer’s ear, pneumonia or flu-like illness, and irritation of the eyes or respiratory tract. Here are just a few tips to help protect yourself and those you care about.
For additional tips and resources click here

Don't swallow the water.
Use well-fitting, Coast Guard-approved life jackets, not air-filled toys (for example, waterwings), for flotation assistance.
Keep an eye on children at all times.
Take kids on bathroom breaks and check diapers every hour.
Change diapers away from the water to keep germs from getting in.
Dry ears thoroughly after swimming which can help prevent swimmer's ear.

About the RSV vaccine Beyfortus

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:43:52 GMT

Beyfortus is a preventative antibody that gives babies the protection against RSV they lack. Antibodies are made naturally by our immune system to fight viruses. But a baby’s immune system might not be strong enough by itself to make enough antibodies to fight RSV. This is where preventative antibodies can add more protection. Beyfortus may not protect all children.

Read more:
RSV Immunizations: New Ways to Protect Babies
Be y fortus website

Island Coast Pediatric News: Welcoming a New Addition to Our Family, Dr Abigail Marritt

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:35:28 GMT

We would like to welcome Dr Abigail Marritt to our Island Coast family. Dr Marritt is a Floridian native born and raised in Tampa. She finished her pediatric residency training at University of Florida, Pensacola and recently moved down south to join us. ( read more )

RSV: When It's More Than Just a Cold.

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:23:55 GMT

We have seen an upsurge of cough and colds symptom lately in our local community. A variety of viruses can cause the inflammation of the membranes that line the nose and throat but the most common one is the rhinoviruses. Antibiotics are not indicated for these but more of just supportive care (fluids, rest, fever control, nasal suctioning / flushing...). Recently, we have seen the rise of RSV as being the culprit. Here's the link for more information.

COVID vaccines for kids 6 months to 4 years old now available at ICPeds

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:19:03 GMT

COVID vaccines for Kids under 5 years old are now available at our office. Text Us to arrange for your vaccines.
Resource:

What should parents know about the COVID vaccine for kids under 5? (From American Academy of Pediatrics)

Dr Bruno's new blog about healthy lifestyle

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:57:17 GMT

Dr Bruno just started her new "blog" about acheiving and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Let's follow her in her blog as she helps us navigate through the different resources available to help us reach our goal.
Go to Dr Bruno's blo

Current CDC Guidelines for COVID-19 exposed or infected.

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:55:06 GMT

Here is the link to the updated CDC guidelines (released December 27, 2021) based on what we currently know about COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. Go to CDC guidelines

Vaccinating for COVID for Children Age 5 to 11 years Old

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:53:18 GMT

The first week of Novemebr might be very well be an improtant week for many Southwest Florida parents. As the FDA has approved the COVID vaccine for mergency use for children between 5 to 11 years old, we now await CDC approval before final release. Dr Bruno talks more about this with WINK TV.

Island Coast Pediatrics News: Dr Bruno Talks About "Recovery Summer"

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:49:27 GMT

Finally! It's the end to what's been a long, strange schoolyear in Lee County. And to start of of summer break, Dr Bruno talks about "recovery summer" for ourselves and the kids.

Pfizer's COVID vaccine now available at Island Coast Pediatrics

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:34:47 GMT

Recently, The FDA has expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) to the 5 to 11 years old children. For 12 to 15 years old, it continues to be available under emergency use authorization (EUA). While for the 16 & older, FDA has given full approval for the Pfizer's COVID vaccine. With the help of Lee Health, we continue to offer the Pfizer COVID vaccines foe children ages 12 & older. TEXT US or call us at 239 768 2111 to schedule an appointment. We will complete both Pfizer vaccine doses and thank you for trusting in our care.

AAP News: COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11 receives final approval
More about the Pfizer COVID vaccine
Pfizer Fact Sheet

Please print and fill up the COVID-19 Vaccine Screening and Consent Form . Bring this form to your COVID vaccine appointment.

TEXT US WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE

COVID-19 Vaccine Checklist for Kids Age 5 and Up (more info)

Parent FAQs

It has been months (since December 2020) since the first COVID vaccine has been released. In the US alone, 277 million doses have been given with 125 million people being completely vaccinated for COVID (data as of 5/19/21).

On May 10, 2021 Pfizer COVID vaccine received approval from the FDA to be given for children age 12 years and older. Below are some frequently asked questions parents have and some quick very short answers. For more detailed answers, click on the links below.

Is it safe for my child to get a COVID-19 Vaccine?

Yes

Which vaccine should my child get?

Currently, Island Coast Pediatrics has the Pfizer vaccine which is the 2-dose vaccine approved for teens who are 12 years old and older.

What are the side effects of the vaccine?

In clinical trials, some adolescent had no side effects while some had side effects similar to those reported by adults:

Pain, redness and swelling at injection site
Fever
Chills
Headache
Fatigue
Nausea
Pain in the muscles

It is recommended to take some acetominophen (Tylenol), hydrate and rest as needed.

Can my child get vaccinated against COVID-19 while my child is currently sick with COVID-19?

No. Wait until they have recovered from their illness and have met the criteria for discontinuing isolation. (10 to 14 days from start of symptoms or of a positive test). If child received monoclonal antibodies for COVID-19, child needs to wait for 90 days.

Can my child get the COVID-19 vaccine coadministered with other vaccines?

Yes. "COVID-19 vaccines and other vaccines may now be administered without regard to timing . This includes simultaneous administration of COVID-19 vaccines and other vaccines on the same day, as well as coadministration within 14 days. It is unknown whether reactogenicity of COVID-19 vaccine is increased with coadministration, including with other vaccines known to be more reactogenic, such as adjuvanted vaccines or live vaccines. When deciding whether to coadminister another vaccine(s) with COVID-19 vaccines, providers should consider whether the patient is behind or at risk of becoming behind on recommended vaccines, their risk of vaccine-preventable disease (e.g., during an outbreak or occupational exposures), and the reactogenicity profile of the vaccines." ( CDC )

Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause myocarditis?

"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is studying these cases to see if there is any link to the vaccine. This kind of ongoing monitoring is standard with all new vaccines to make sure they are safe. Fortunately, the number of myocarditis cases reported in young people after vaccination doesn't appear any larger than what's normally seen in people this age without the vaccine.

However, we want to make sure that these cases aren't anything more than coincidence. If the reported myocarditis is related to COVID-19 vaccines, it's most likely a rare side effect since the vaccines have been given since December 2020 to at least 4 million adolescents between ages 16 and 18; the condition has not been reported to be associated with vaccination during that time." ( AAP's HealthyChildren.org )

Sources:
AAP's HealthyChildren.org : The Science Behind the COVID-19 Vaccine: Parents FAQs
CDC : Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination
FDA: Pfizer-BioTech COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions
AAP: About the COVID-19 Vaccine: Frequently Asked Questions
CDC: Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines Currently Authorized in the United States
AAP's Healthy Children.org: Does the COVID-19 Vaccine Cause Myocarditis?

Island Coast Pediatrics News: Helping Children Stay Mentally Strong.

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:55:44 GMT

The continuing pandemic-related restrictions takes toll in our children's emotional and mental well being. Dr Bruno talks about things that we can do to alleviate the increasing loneliness, anxiety and depression in our children.

Island Coast Pediatrics News: National Autism Awareness Month

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:53:03 GMT

April is National Autism Awareness Month, except this year we are calling it as National Autism Acceptance Month. Dr Bruno discusses at WINK about what this time of the year signifies and why the change in name.

Island Coast Pediatrics News: Addressing the Increasing Cases of Depression in Children.

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:23:40 GMT

Depression and anxiety concerns are complicated problems with many challenges to overcome. Unfortunately, both of these concerns have significantly increased over the past year due to the COVID pandemic. The increased stress that this era has brought has caused many patient’s internal balance to shift. Some have experienced loss of family, others have dealt with loss of control to certain situations. Many feel a loss of freedom and are challenged in coping with unfamiliar situations. Some have lost access to important connections that they need to cope effectively with their stress. Friendships have suffered greatly due to the strains of COVID and this is especially hard on teens since they identify more with their friends rather than their family at this age. Teens use their friendships and connections to find their place in the world.

When a child feels like they have lost control as well as their connections, anxiety begins. If untreated, hopelessness and depression can set in. So, it is very important to check in on your children regularly and use available tools to help gather information to determine if they are doing well both mentally and emotionally. Below we have provided some tools and resources for your convenience to help you as you check in with your child. Together, you and your child can work on ways to help keep them well by having regular communication and trying to maintain their fun interests and healthy outlets. Children need something to look forward to so do whatever you can to help them stay connected to trusted friends. Plan safe events together and try to find out what motivates your child the most.

Getting through this difficult time and working on ways to help them will take some effort. Children need their parents to help them see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Take time to reflect on changes and the benefits this COVID experience has brought. By doing so, it can help them build resilience as a result. If this is a skill they can walk away with, then we can even go so far as to say that they benefited and are stronger individuals because of this. It's our job to help guide them to that reflection and make sure that we are all recovering together in the healthiest way possible. Please take a moment to check out the tools and resources below and feel free to call us with questions or for an appointment if needed

What can you do?

First assess the situation. Most kids, especially teens will not disclose that they are feeling sad. Teens are elusive and do not want to communicate or do not know how. Try to keep communication open, check in on them, ask how they are doing.

A few ideas that can help you gather more information.

Create a communication notebook.Sometimes this works better to get Teens to open up.
Print and hand them the PHQ-2 evaluation tool : literally print it off and have them do it. You will get a more honest response from the paper vs words most times. (click: PHQ-2 )
Focus on the positives. Help them see the bright side everyday.

Options to treat :

Most of the time kids only need to work it out with you, a counselor or they will work it out themselves. It is most important that you try to keep open communications and seek help if needed. Currently counselors have a waiting list, but if you need to be on that list we want to make sure that we start the process of evaluation and doing what you can at home. There are some available apps that are very helpful : Calm and Headspace are two very popular apps that are available. A few more things that can help:

Exercise (even just going for a walk) it’s natural serotonin.
Eat well: eat healthy foods, it will make you feel better. Sugar spikes and junk food make us feel worse in the end.
Sleep: try to regulate sleep patterns. Goal of 8 hrs/ day
Schedule activities to look forward to
Spend time with friends and family that can support you
Small goals and baby steps: eg. this week I will… walk twice and try to eat healthier.The more details the better. (eg. I will walk on tuesday and thursday and start to eat salad for lunch)

Emergency options that are local are Salus Care and David Lawrence Center in Naples and of course the emergency room if they are unsafe. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is 1-800-273-8255 and available if you’re concerned for their safety or just need help starting the conversation. In addition, have them identify a safe person to contact if they feel unsafe.

For further evaluation of your child, start here with these resources. There is a very helpful evaluation tool called the PHQ-2 that is appropriate for ages 11yrs and up, it asks only 2 questions to help determine if they are at risk and need further evaluation.

Contact your Doctor if you're concerned. The majority of children do not require medication, they just need to learn how to deal with emotions. Once you identify the problem, we can start to manage it better before it gets worse. Check in with your child today please.

Island Coast Pediatrics has compiled some resources that might be of help to you. Download this interactive pdf file. ( ICPeds Mental Health Resources )

Nicole Bruno, D.O.
Wilfred Lee, M.D.
Holly Velez

Island Coast Pediatrics News: Dr Bruno talks about Cancer Prevention

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:09:32 GMT

February is Cancer PREVENTION month and here Dr Bruno reviews some important reasons to support the healthy lifestyle we all strive for. More fuel for your fire other than weight management and feeling great!! You can literally prevent some CANCERS for you and your family. Another reason to improve your family’s diet today and up everyone’s exercise game.

Island Coast Pediatrics News: Dr Bruno Talks Facts About The Vaccines

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:07:06 GMT

Months after the initial release of the COVID-19 vaccines, about a quarter of the public remains vaccine hesitant. Now more than ever, it is critical to get the right information about the vaccines. Dr Bruno talks about vaccines with WINK.

Island Coast Pediatrics News: Dr Bruno talks about COVID-19 vaccines and kids

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:03:34 GMT

Island Coast Pediatrics News: What exactly is a detox and how can it benefit you?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:01:36 GMT

Dr. Nicole Bruno was interviewed by the WINK News studio to talk about the health benefits of detoxing and reseting your system.

Patient Portal News

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 08:54:53 GMT

We are excited to announce the release of our new Intelichart patient portal. We made an investment in your patient experience because we want you to have your health information readily and conveniently available.

Here are some of the things you can take advantage of once enrolled:

Request non-urgent appointments, medication refills, forms and referrals online
Access your child’s secure health record any time from any device
Receive appointment reminders on your cell phone and via email
Secure communication between you and our team
Decrease in-office wait time by completing forms online
Pay your bills online

You can access our patient portal online or you can download the mobile app from either the App Store for iPhone uses or the Google Play Store for Android users by searching for

“InteliChart” in either store and select “PATIENT PORTAL BY INTELICHART” & download the app to your phone.