Choosing a pediatrician in Cleveland, OH is a big decision. You want someone you can trust, someone who listens, and—let’s be honest—someone who won’t make you sit on hold for 30 minutes just to schedule a rushed appointment weeks from now.
That’s why I’m so excited to introduce you to Zest Pediatric Network, a direct pediatric care network that’s flipping the traditional pediatric model on its head. No long waits, no surprise bills—just personalized, accessible care from a pediatrician who actually knows your child.
I recently chatted with Dr. Mike Perisa, a pediatrician serving families in Cleveland, OH, about why this model works so well for parents and what makes Zest different. If you’re expecting or searching for a new Cleveland pediatrician, this is one post you’ll want to bookmark.
Meet Dr. Mike Perisa – A Dedicated Zest Pediatric Network Pediatrician in Cleveland, OH
Dr. Mike Perisa isn’t just a pediatrician—he’s also a dad who totally gets how overwhelming parenting can be. His journey into medicine started in middle school after losing his aunt, who was a physician, in a tragic accident. Inspired by her legacy, he set out to become a doctor himself.
Originally, he planned to specialize in pediatric cancer, but life had other plans. After a family loss and some unexpected health challenges, he returned to Northeast Ohio and started practicing as a general pediatrician in Cleveland. It didn’t take long for him to realize how broken the traditional healthcare system was—rushed visits, long wait times, and insurance headaches.
That’s when he discovered Zest Pediatrics, a direct pediatric care network, and he hasn’t looked back since.
What is Direct Pediatric Care? A New Approach for Cleveland Families
If you’ve ever waited weeks for an appointment, felt rushed through a well-visit, or wished you could just text your pediatrician a quick question instead of dragging your kid to the office, you’re not alone.
Zest Pediatrics ditches the insurance-driven system and replaces it with something way simpler: a flat monthly membership fee that gives you unlimited access to your pediatrician. Sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it?
Here’s what that means for you:
- Same pediatrician every time – No more seeing a different doctor at each visit.
- 24/7 direct access – Yes, you can actually text your pediatrician when you need them.
- Longer, unrushed visits – Some appointments last 60–90 minutes so you can ask all the questions.
- Home visits for newborns – No need to take your tiny baby out in the cold.
- No surprise bills – Just one flat monthly fee.
And unlike traditional pediatric practices where doctors sometimes juggle 3,000+ patients, Zest doctors cap their patient load at around 300 so they can give each family the time and attention they deserve.
Why More Parents Are Choosing Zest Pediatrics in Cleveland, OH
For many families, the biggest perk of Zest Pediatrics is peace of mind. Here’s why so many parents in Cleveland and Northeast Ohio are making the switch:
Pediatric Care That Fits Your Life
Sick kid but stuck working from home? Instead of rearranging your whole day, Zest offers home visits or even remote diagnosis via text. No waiting rooms, no unnecessary trips.
A “Village” of Experts at Your Fingertips
Your membership includes access to lactation consultants, sleep specialists, parent coaches, psychologists, nutritionists, and dietitians.
No More Insurance Headaches
Co-pays, deductibles, and surprise bills? Gone. The flat fee (which averages $160 per month) is often covered by HSA funds or Medicaid programs.
Fewer Urgent Care & ER Visits
Because Zest doctors are always available, many families avoid expensive urgent care or ER visits for minor illnesses and injuries.
How to Find the Right Pediatrician in Cleveland, OH
If you’re searching for a pediatrician in Cleveland, OH, here’s what to consider when choosing a provider:
- Availability – Can you get same-day or next-day appointments?
- Personalized Care – Will your child see the same doctor every time?
- Access – Can you text or call your pediatrician when you need them?
- Cost Transparency – Are there hidden fees or unexpected bills?
Zest Pediatrics checks all these boxes—making it a top choice for parents who want stress-free, relationship-based pediatric care.
How to Join Zest Pediatrics
The good news is signing up with Zest Pediatric Network is super simple:
- Go to ZestPeds.com and fill out the contact form at the bottom.
- A Zest pediatrician will reach out via phone, text, or email to chat about the practice.
- If it feels like a great fit, you’ll get an email with easy enrollment instructions.
- That’s it—no insurance red tape, no long waitlists. Just personalized care from day one.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Perisa
When I asked Dr. Perisa what he loves most about direct pediatric care, he kept it simple:
“It lets me be the doctor I always wanted to be. I get to build real relationships with families, take my time answering their questions, and be there for them whenever they need me—without the limitations of a traditional practice.”
Also—shoutout to Dr. Perisa for being such a kind human. Not only did he take the time to chat about Zest, but he and his family also trusted me to capture newborn photos for their third baby. If you visit Zest Pediatrics of Solon, you’ll even see some of my work on the walls! Thanks, Dr. Mike!
Looking for a Pediatrician in Cleveland, OH?
Zest Pediatrics is more than just a doctor’s office—it’s a support system for families who want personalized, accessible, and stress-free care for their kids.
If you’re expecting or looking for a Cleveland pediatrician who truly partners with your family, I highly encourage you to check out Zest Pediatrics.
Learn more & sign up at ZestPeds.com
And if you’re expecting and considering an in-home newborn session, let’s chat! I’d love to document this special time for your family.
Learn more about in-home newborn or family photography sessions with me
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