Meet our pediatric team
Megan Emily Hays, PNP-PC
Nurse Practitioner
Languages spoken:
English & Spanish
Q&A with Megan
What is your favorite animated movie or cartoon?
Encanto is my current favorite, but I always love the animated Robin Hood (1973).
What is your favorite children's book?
The Phantom Tollbooth, by Norton Juster.
"Expect everything, I always say, and the unexpected never happens."
What was your favorite childhood toy?
My stuffed dog, Cinnamon, who used to ride around in a 90s pink barbie Jeep. We went on a lot of adventures together!
Who is your greatest inspiration?
My grandmother, Helen "Granny" Grandish Kirk, who loved being a nurse and traveling the world.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
Spending time with my family and friends, fiber art (especially knitting), and reading.
What inspired you to work in pediatrics?
Originally studying anthropology and economics, I have always known that taking care of mothers is an incredible way to leverage care for the community. While I originally intended to study midwifery, I quickly realized that, if you want to take care of mothers, you need to take care of their kids. Turns out, I love taking care of kids, too!
What unique qualities, skills, or services set you apart, and how do you build a positive rapport with patients and their families?
Trust is based on paying attention. I do my best to listen to and HEAR what families are saying, while also paying to the latest evidence-based research and guidelines regarding their presentation and diagnosis. I have worked in lactation medicine in the past, and am now steering my scope to be able to support more families with their mental health needs.
How do you accommodate patients with special needs?
For every patient, regardless of diagnosis, developmental stage or accommodation, I do my best to understand the priority of the visit, and what I can do to make them feel respected.