Dr. John Astrino, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics (ACHP) Hudson, retires on Sept. 30.
As a boy, Dr. John Astrino, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics (ACHP) Hudson office, was interested in and learned about many things. Luckily, his West Virginia city, Fairmont, gave him access to everything he needed, including a good education, plenty of Pittsburgh sports news and recreational opportunities in a state known for its natural beauty. By the time he was in 8th grade, he had narrowed down his interests, deciding that becoming a doctor, and specifically a pediatrician, was a perfect career choice. After all, doctors usually played the good guys on the TV shows he watched. Plus, the only pediatrician he knew always treated him kindly and attentively.
For many years, Dr. Astrino was the kind of pediatrician he had envisioned as a boy. He was playful and curious with his patients, and offered perspective, empathy and kindness to their families. After 38 years in practice, the last 19 of those spent at Children’s, Dr. Astrino retires on Sept. 30.
Despite his love of the Mountain State, Dr. Astrino and his wife are firmly rooted in northeast Ohio where 2 of their 3 children also live. Dr. Astrino looks forward to spending time with his family, traveling, pursuing hobbies and socializing with his church friends.
What brought you to Children’s?
I was graduating from West Virginia University School of Medicine and was accepted by Children’s pediatric residency program.
What was going on in your life then?
My wife, Barbara, who is also from West Virginia, and I were recently married. We initially thought we would return to West Virginia after I completed my residency. But we became involved with our local church, and the people we met became like family to us. We quickly began to feel like this area is one of the best places to live.
Have you always worked in the same department and role?
I’ve always practiced general office pediatrics. For several years, I was in private practice before joining insurance company-owned and hospital-owned practices. In August, 2000, I returned to Children’s ACHP Hudson office.
Seeing his patients grow and mature gave Dr. Astrino a lot of pleasure.
What have your biggest contributions been while here?
I’ve met thousands of families during my practice and developed many wonderful relationships. When my patients and their families hear I’m retiring, many are sharing wonderful memories with me of how much I meant to them. It’s a blessing and gives me a great deal of satisfaction knowing I had such a positive influence.
How has Akron Children’s changed since you started here?
The most significant change is the number of pediatric specialties and subspecialties. When I attend continuing medical education meetings and compare our medical expertise and care with other institutions around the U.S., I realize how far Children’s has come over the last 4 decades. Additionally, electronic medical records have really changed the business of medicine. I won’t miss EPIC!
What gave you the most satisfaction at work?
Seeing my patients grow and mature. It’s also been great working with the ACHP Hudson office staff.
If there’s fist bumps and other silliness involved, your child just might be at a regular checkup with Dr. Astrino. Watch the video
With so many little children here, did someone or something especially touch your heart?
It’s a great feeling every time a kid says, “I love coming here.” Oftentimes, that’s followed by hugs, high fives or fist bumps.
What do you look forward to the most in retirement?
My wife and I have grown more active over the years, thanks to her saying, “Come on. Let’s try it. It will be fun.” I plan to hike, bike, run and kayak as much as possible. I also want to do more photography, bird watching and reading.
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
There’s really no “perfect” day. If my heart and mind are one with God, then the day is successful and as close to perfect as I could desire.
Do you have any advice for people just starting at Children’s?
Develop relationships with other employees. They’ll help get you through difficult days and you’ll feel satisfaction and contentment when you help them out.
What couldn’t you live without?
With God, I can do anything I’m called to do. But if asked what I would not desire to live without, it’s hands down my wife.
What music do you like? Where and how do you listen to it?
I enjoy most well-written music genres, especially while driving or running, but prefer choral polyphony music when I relax.
What’s the last book your read?
“History of Christianity” by Paul Johnson
What’s the last movie you saw?
“Avengers: Endgame”
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