Special to Iredell Free News

Iredell Health System, in partnership with the Iredell Physician Network, has opened a new practice, Iredell Pediatrics, in Statesville.

Dr. Michael Tjahjadi

Dr. Michael Tjahjadi has joined the Iredell Physician Network as the physician at the new practice.

At Iredell Pediatrics, Tjahjadi will offer a comprehensive range of pediatric services tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. From routine check-ups to sick visits, immunizations, and preventive care, Iredell Pediatrics strives to be a trusted partner for parents to promote the optimal growth and development of their child.

Tjahjadi is a board-certified pediatrician with over nine years of experience. He chose his specialty because he enjoys partnering with parents and caregivers in helping them achieve goals for the children’s overall wellbeing.

Tjahjadi believes in an educational, preventive, and patient-centered approach to medical care.

“I believe in the power of education and empowering parents and caregivers to help make health informed decisions for the overall wellbeing of their children. I believe in the power of preventive care and caring for the whole child—which may encompass their mental health, family, friendships, beliefs, and social circles,” said Tjahjadi.

Tjahjadi’s hope is that parents and caregivers leave his office with a greater understanding of their children’s health, both in the management of their conditions and in preventive behaviors.

Upon their first appointment with Tjahjadi, patients can expect to be greeted by a physician with a welcoming smile and an attentive ear.

“I like to greet people with a smile and create a warm, inviting atmosphere where both the child and parent or caregiver are listened to. I want to learn what’s important to the family and to act as a guide in decision-making for them,” he said.

Tjahjadi earned his undergraduate degree in biological sciences from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He received his medical degree from Augusta University (formerly Medical College of Georgia) and completed his residency at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital in Columbia, S.C.

Tjahjadi is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics. To date, he has served as a preceptor for more than 20 physician assistant students and five nurse practitioner students. He has also presented at the South Carolina chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics conference.

In residency, Tjahjadi was nominated as a Resident Physician of the Year candidate and received the Resident Teacher of the Year Award.

When he is not treating patients, Tjahjadi enjoys hiking with his wife, playing board games with friends and family, songwriting, playing music, and serving with his church’s music ministry. He can play a variety of musical instruments, including piano, guitar, drums, cello, and violin. He and his wife also have a white Maltese-Shih Tsu dog.

His favorite health tip is to limit sugars by focusing on healthy hydration.

“Did you know that according to the American Heart Association, a 20-ounce soda may contain the same amount of sugar as six donuts or 18 small cookies? Many of the added sugars in our diets may come from what we drink, not what we eat. I like to focus first on healthy drinking (water, water, water)! That is the easiest place to start making changes,” he said.

LEARN MORE

Iredell Pediatrics is located at 728 Hartness Road in Statesville. Dr. Tjahjadi will treat children from birth to age 18. To schedule an appointment, please call 704-380-6420. Learn more at IredellPediatrics.com.

About Iredell Health System

Iredell Health System includes Iredell Memorial Hospital; Iredell Mooresville; two urgent care centers; Iredell Home Health; Iredell Wound Care & Hyperbaric Center; Community and Corporate Wellness; Occupational Medicine; the Iredell Physician Network and more. Iredell Memorial Hospital is the largest and only nonprofit hospital in Iredell County. The comprehensive healthcare facility has 247 beds; more than 1,800 employees; and has 260 physicians representing various specialties. Centers of excellence include Women’s and Children’s; Cardiovascular; Cancer; Surgical Services and Wellness & Prevention. The Health System’s second campus, Iredell Mooresville, is home to the area’s only 24-hour urgent care facility, as well as an ambulatory surgery center, imaging center, rehabilitation services, and physician practices. The mission of Iredell Health System is to inspire wellbeing. For a comprehensive list of services and programs, visit www.iredellhealth.org.