FAAP 2021 Pediatrician of the Year: Clark McSparren, Jr, MD

Each year, the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (PA AAP) recognizes a Pennsylvania Pediatric Fellow who exemplifies the ideals of the pediatric profession and participates in the type of activities that are the foundation of the PA AAP.

This year's recipient is Clark McSparren, Jr, MD, FAAP from Lancaster, PA. Dr. McSparren, one of the founding physicians of Lancaster Pediatric Associates, has practiced general pediatrics for more than 50 years.

While a practicing pediatrician, Dr. McSparren also demonstrated a commitment to the community through leadership service, including serving as Chief of Pediatrics for the local hospital for five years, Medical Director of CAPs Lancaster City and Lancaster County Head Start Program for 12 years, co-founding the Lancaster County Committee on Child Abuse and more. He has also served as a preceptor and instructor for medical students and pediatric residents, firmly believing that we all have an obligation to train the next generation of physicians.

After retiring from private practice, Dr. McSparren increased his volunteering for the School District of Lancaster, providing medical care in their school-based clinics. More than 85% of children served by this district live in poverty, resulting in a need to provide them free, accessible care. Dr. McSparren has spearheaded this program which has now expanded beyond the elementary level to the middle and high school under his leadership.

Dr. McSparren has also helped to lead a successful capital campaign to build a new pediatric unit at Lancaster General Hospital, and he shares his time and knowledge to many nonprofit organizations to make his community a better place with service to music, theater, educational and many other organizations dedicated to children.

Congratulations and thank you to Dr. McSparren! The Pediatrician of the Year Award Presentation will take place virtually at the PA AAP Pediatric Conference on Saturday, March 20th.

Drs. McSparren and Boben