Pediatric and Adolescent Care in Lafayette, LA and Beyond

- Board-Certified Professionals

- High-Quality Medical Care

- Over 25 Years of Experience 

- Board-Certified Professionals

- High-Quality Medical Care

- Over 25 Years of Experience 

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We Are a Medicaid Provider With an On-Site KidMed Clinic

Have you been curious about taking your child or adolescent to see pediatricians in Lafayette, LA or the surrounding area? When you and your child visit us at Great Beginnings Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, you'll never worry about getting the medical care your child needs. We have the certifications and experience to provide the quality health care all children deserve. New patients are welcome! Most insurance is accepted. Give us a call today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Navigating your child’s healthcare journey often brings up questions regarding insurance, age-related care, and the qualifications of your medical providers. At Great Beginnings Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we believe that clear communication is the foundation of a healthy partnership between our office and your family. We have compiled these concise answers to address common inquiries, helping you feel fully prepared and confident when you choose our dedicated team of pediatricians in Opelousas, LA for your child’s ongoing medical needs.


  • Does your office only see young children, or can I bring my teenager there as well?

    We provide comprehensive medical services that span the entire journey from birth through young adulthood. Our practice is specifically designed to handle the unique physiological and emotional shifts that occur during the teenage years, ensuring that older children feel respected during their appointments. Families looking for experienced pediatricians in Opelousas, LA will find that we offer a seamless continuum of care for all ages. Whether your teenager needs a sports physical, updated immunizations for college, or a routine wellness check, our board-certified staff is equipped to handle those specific milestones with over 25 years of experience.

  • I’ve had trouble finding a clinic that accepts my insurance; what is your policy?

    One of our primary goals at Great Beginnings Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine is to ensure that high-quality medical care is accessible to as many families as possible. We understand that insurance coverage can be a major stressor for parents, which is why we are proud to accept most major insurance plans. By functioning as a Medicaid provider, we serve as a vital resource for families searching for pediatricians in Lafayette, LA and the surrounding areas. We believe that every child deserves a great beginning in life, regardless of their insurance provider. 

  • What makes your clinic different from a standard pediatric office?

    Our on-site KidMed clinic is a specialized component of our practice focused on preventative health and early detection for children and youth who have Medicaid. This program emphasizes the importance of regular screening and wellness checks, providing a streamlined experience where your child can receive comprehensive physicals, developmental screenings, and sensory testing in one familiar location. This specialized service makes us a preferred choice for those seeking pediatricians in Opelousas, LA who can provide thorough, state-mandated wellness exams. 

  • Can you tell me more about the qualifications and experience of your medical staff?

    Our practice is led by a team of highly qualified medical professionals who are passionate about children’s health. Carmen E. Johnson, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, working alongside Tatjana Mimes, a certified pediatric nurse practitioner. Parents searching for pediatricians in Lafayette, LA often choose us because of this deep well of professional knowledge and our long-standing reputation in the community. With over 25 years of experience, our staff has encountered a wide array of medical conditions, giving us the expertise needed to provide top-tier care. 

  • I am expecting a baby soon; are you currently accepting new patients?

    Congratulations on your upcoming arrival, and yes, we are absolutely accepting new patients and would be honored to be your child’s medical home. The newborn period is a critical time for monitoring growth, checking for jaundice, and establishing healthy feeding patterns, and we recommend that expecting parents reach out to us before the birth. As established pediatricians in Opelousas, LA, we understand the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with a new baby and prioritize supporting new parents with clear guidance. From the initial newborn screening to the many wellness checks that follow in the first year, our team is here to ensure your baby gets a healthy start. 

  • What should I do if my child has a sudden illness or a minor injury?

    We know that illnesses and injuries don't always happen on a convenient schedule, so we offer same-day appointments and emergency care during our standard office hours. Whether it is a high fever, a persistent cough, or a minor physical injury, we strive to see your child quickly so they can begin their recovery. For those looking for pediatricians in Lafayette, LA who offer a responsive approach to acute care, our office provides a reliable solution. Our staff is trained to handle injury treatment and acute illness with both efficiency and a gentle touch to keep your child comfortable. 

  • How do you handle routine checkups and immunizations?

    Routine checkups are the cornerstone of our practice and allow us to track your child’s growth and development over time. These visits are the perfect time to discuss nutrition and safety while ensuring your child is up to date on all necessary immunizations to protect them from preventable diseases. When searching for pediatricians in Opelousas, LA or the surrounding areas, families often look for a clinic that makes these routine visits easy by maintaining detailed records and following professional guidelines.

  • What is the environment of your office like for children who might be nervous?

    We go to great lengths to ensure that our office is a friendly and welcoming space for children and adolescents alike, understanding that a visit to the doctor can be intimidating. Our staff uses a compassionate and patient approach to every interaction, from the front desk greeting to the exam room. Parents who are looking for pediatricians in Lafayette, LA often comment on how our staff's demeanor helps ease their child's anxiety and makes the medical experience much smoother. 

  • Where exactly is your clinic located, and what are your hours?

    Our clinic is conveniently located at 3975 I-49 South Service Rd, Suite 201, in Opelousas, LA, providing easy access for families throughout the region. We are open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and on Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, with hours designed to accommodate busy school and work schedules. As prominent pediatricians in Opelousas, LA and the nearby areas, we want to make sure you can find us easily and access high-quality care during our standard operating hours. 

  • How can I get in touch with your office to schedule an appointment?

    Scheduling an appointment with us is simple; you can call our main office line at (337) 200-4050 or reach us via our mobile number at (337) 407-2795. We also have a contact form on our website for general inquiries, making it easy for new families to reach out and learn more about our services. Whether you are a long-time patient or a new family looking for pediatricians in Lafayette, LA, we are ready to assist you in finding a time that works for your schedule. 

Learn More About

Great Beginnings Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine

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