Today we’d like to introduce you to Gaston Ofman
Hi Gaston , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey in medicine began in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I completed my medical degree. Early on, I knew I wanted to work with children and neonates, particularly the most vulnerable—those born prematurely or with life-threatening conditions. This passion led me to the United States, where I sought further training in pediatrics and neonatology.
After completing my pediatric residency at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas, I pursued fellowship training in neonatology at Northwestern University in Chicago. During my fellowship, I focused on understanding the critical role of neonatal development, conducting research that explored how early-life conditions influence long-term health outcomes. My research allowed me to connect important dots between early cellular changes and later pediatric diseases, which further deepened my commitment to advancing neonatal care.
Over time, however, I became increasingly aware of how pediatric care was becoming depersonalized. With the demands placed on physicians, patient interactions have been rushed, leading to fragmented care and diminishing the ability to build meaningful connections with families. This shift in the healthcare landscape inspired me to take a different approach.
I founded Sunbeam Pediatrics, a holistic concierge pediatric practice designed to counter the trend of rushed, impersonal care. At Sunbeam, I prioritize comprehensive, individualized attention, offering longer appointments and focusing on the physical, emotional, and developmental health of each child. The concierge model allows me to spend the necessary time with families, providing support that addresses their specific concerns and needs, ultimately delivering a more personalized healthcare experience.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that what matters most is not just the care I provide, but the relationships I build with my patients and their families. Medicine, especially pediatrics, is about trust and connection. It’s about being there for a family through both the challenging and joyful moments. I’ve learned that the best care happens when we treat the whole child, not just the symptoms, and that requires time, empathy, and commitment—values I carry with me every day in my practice.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road, and I think anyone in the medical field would agree that the journey comes with its share of challenges. One of the biggest struggles I faced early on was during my training in neonatology. Neonatal care is incredibly complex, and it often felt like a steep learning curve—balancing the emotional toll of caring for critically ill newborns while constantly pushing myself to stay on top of the latest research and clinical advancements. There were many sleepless nights, moments of uncertainty, and times when the weight of responsibility was overwhelming.
As I transitioned into my professional career, another major challenge emerged—navigating the increasing pressures of modern healthcare. I noticed a shift in how pediatric care was being delivered, with shorter appointment times and more focus on administrative tasks. It was frustrating because it limited the quality of care I wanted to provide. There was less time to build relationships with families, answer questions thoroughly, or really dig into the root causes of a child’s health issues. That sense of disconnection was disheartening, and I knew I had to find a better way to practice medicine.
Starting my own concierge practice, Sunbeam Pediatrics, was another hurdle. While it’s been incredibly rewarding, launching a practice from the ground up required immense effort. I had to rethink how to provide personalized care in a system that often prioritizes volume over quality. There were financial challenges, logistical hurdles, and a need to educate families about the benefits of a concierge model, but I was determined to build something that aligned with my vision of pediatric care.
Looking back, the struggles were difficult, but they shaped my path and taught me valuable lessons. Each obstacle helped me refine my approach to care, and I’m grateful for the challenges because they ultimately led me to create the kind of practice where I can make a real difference.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Sunbeam Pediatrics is a holistic, concierge pediatric practice designed to deliver personalized, high-quality care that is often missing in today’s healthcare system. We are committed to providing comprehensive care that focuses on the physical, emotional, and developmental well-being of each child. What sets us apart is our approach—our appointments are longer, allowing us to fully understand each family’s unique needs, and our care is tailored to every child. We don’t just address symptoms; we look at the whole child, considering nutrition, sleep, mental health, and family dynamics in our treatment plans.
We specialize in a full range of pediatric services, from preventive care to managing acute and chronic conditions. Additionally, we work closely with developmental specialists, child psychologists, and nutritionists to offer truly integrated care. This collaboration ensures that all aspects of a child’s health are addressed, whether it’s developmental concerns, mental health support, or nutritional guidance. As a concierge practice, we provide 24/7 direct access to our pediatricians, house calls, and telemedicine, offering flexibility and convenience to busy families.
What I’m most proud of is how Sunbeam Pediatrics has created an environment where families feel heard, supported, and empowered. We aim to build lasting relationships with our patients, offering care that’s nurturing and never rushed. Our brand is known for delivering intimate, personalized, and holistic care that goes beyond the typical healthcare experience.
For our readers, I want them to know that Sunbeam Pediatrics is here to offer a different kind of healthcare experience—one that values partnership between the physician and the family. We are dedicated to helping children thrive in all aspects of their lives, and we are here to guide and support families every step of the way.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Luck has certainly played a role in both my life and business, though I tend to view it as a combination of timing, preparation, and opportunity. Good luck has come in the form of being surrounded by incredible mentors and colleagues throughout my career, people who’ve guided me and opened doors that allowed me to grow both as a physician and a researcher. For example, early in my career, I was fortunate to be part of groundbreaking research in neonatology that helped shape my understanding of holistic care, which ultimately influenced the foundation of Sunbeam Pediatrics.
At the same time, I’ve faced challenges that some might call bad luck—like the increasing pressure in traditional healthcare systems that made it difficult to spend quality time with patients. However, these struggles also motivated me to find a better way, leading to the creation of my practice. I believe that what might initially seem like bad luck can sometimes be an opportunity in disguise. Those difficult moments often prompted some of my most important decisions, like shifting to concierge care, which has been immensely rewarding.
In the end, I think luck plays a part, but it’s how we respond to both good and bad circumstances that truly defines the path forward.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @dr.GastonOfman
- Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NiWTFgBhWRhsQkMr5
