PEDIATRIC PROVIDER JOINS WMCHC’S STERLING OFFICE

Honesdale, PA (July 21, 2025) — Wayne Memorial Community Health Centers (WMCHC) is pleased to announce the addition of Sara Kovalchik, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C to its pediatric care team. Kovalchik, a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, treats patients newborn to age 18 at the Sterling Pediatric Center at 62 Industrial Park Road, Lake Ariel, PA. Services include well and sick child visits, developmental screenings, immunizations and more. Appointments may be made by calling 570-689-7565.

Kovalchik says having been her family’s go-to babysitter allowed her to be surrounded by children for as long as she can remember, “that early experience sparked my passion for working with children and laid the foundation for my career path,” she stated.

After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Pennsylvania State University, Kovalchik’s career as an RN included working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Moses Taylor Hospital, Scranton. It was during that time her interest in caring for critically ill infants was deepened, and she recognized that a role in pediatrics allowed her to “care not only for the child, but also to support the entire family dynamic which plays a crucial role in the child’s overall wellbeing.”

Kovalchik spent four years as an RN in the Clarks Summit pediatric practice of Anders Nelson, M.D. while working towards her Master of Science in Nursing specializing as an FNP from Misericordia University, Dallas, PA. She later transitioned into the NP role and says the opportunity, “helped mold me into a competent pediatric provider.”

Set to graduate from Misericordia University with her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (DNP) in August 2025, Kovalchik indicated that furthering her career at WMCHC stems from a desire to be part of a dynamic and supportive healthcare team where she can both contribute and learn. “My previous roles have equipped me with a broad skillset across the pediatric continuum, making me well-prepared to serve a wide range of patients,” she stated. “WMCHC’s dedication to quality care and standing in the community make it an ideal organization for me to apply my skills and grow professionally as an NP.”

The Sterling site is one of WMCHC’s four pediatric outpatient practices. The others are located in Honesdale, Waymart and Lords Valley. WMCHC Pediatric Services offers affordable care to all, accepting most managed care plans, commercial insurances and PA Medical Assistance. Visit www.wmchc.net for information on all of our services.

PHOTO: Sara Kovalchik, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C