Deep experience in pediatric care and practice leadership will help shape the next generation of technology for pediatric practices.

FORT WASHINGTON, Pa., September 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Office Practicum (OP), the market’s leading pediatric-specialty EHR, today announced that Dr. Barbara Periard has been named Chief Medical Officer. In her new role, Dr. Periard will help guide OP’s clinical strategy and the continued evolution of its technology and solutions for pediatric practices.

Dr. Periard brings decades of experience in pediatrics, practice leadership, and technology. She previously served as President of Forest Hills Pediatric Associates, where she also practiced as a pediatrician. A longtime Office Practicum customer, she has also served on the OP Clinical Advisory Board for six years and shared her expertise in improving clinical and operational efficiency for pediatric practices at industry conferences, including OP Engage, the company’s annual user conference.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Periard to our leadership team,” said Mike Ressel, CEO of Office Practicum. “Her experience as a pediatrician, practice owner, and leader, combined with her deep familiarity with OP and the community we serve, gives her an exceptionally valuable perspective. As we continue to invest in the future of pediatric technology, her insight will help ensure that our strategy and product direction remain closely connected to the real-world needs of pediatric practices.”

Dr. Periard began her career in technology, earning an engineering degree and working as a computer consultant before pursuing medicine. She has since combined her clinical expertise with a strong interest in data and operational efficiency, serving in both clinical and administrative leadership roles within her practice. She is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of its SOAPM and COCIT committees, and has spoken extensively on pediatric and practice management topics, including pediatric AI. Additionally, Dr. Periard coauthored the AAP policy statement on the use of generative AI in pediatric clinical care, which is expected to be published in November.

“I’m excited to be an authentic advocate for clinicians, practice owners, and practice managers,” Dr. Periard said. “Having experienced each of those roles myself — and having used OP for 17 years — I understand firsthand the challenges pediatric practices face. I look forward to helping ensure OP continues to evolve in ways that make technology a more powerful tool for practice success and, ultimately, for taking care of kids.”

About Office Practicum

Office Practicum is the leader in pediatric healthcare technology, providing independent pediatric practices with solutions that support every stage of a child’s development. From clinical and operational workflows supported by pediatric AI, to patient engagement and financial management, OP helps practices stay competitive and sustainable in an era of consolidation. Learn more at www.officepracticum.com.

Media Contact

Darice Warren
dwarren@officepracticum.com