Patient experience spotlight: Dr. Jessica Tattershall

Dr. Jessica Tattershall

Each month, Akron Children’s recognizes an employee for providing an excellent patient experience. Our most recent honoree is Dr. Jessica Tattershall, pediatrician at Akron Children’s Pediatrics in Austintown. She recently received this feedback from a grateful grandma:

“I am the grandmother of (patient name omitted for privacy). She recently lost her mother in June to a tragic car accident. I did get full custody, but I wanted you to know that I’ve been going to the Akron Children’s location in Austintown. Her doctor is Dr. Jessica Tattershall, and she is amazing. It almost brings me to tears how wonderful she’s been to not only my granddaughter but to me as well. It’s still very hard, so I just wanted to shout out to her and thank you for running such a wonderful facility.”

Dr. Tattershall, how long have you worked at Akron Children’s?

I have worked at Akron Children’s since 2013. During that time, it has truly felt like home. Every day reaffirms why this is such a special place to care for children and families.

What do you like best about caring for kids?

Kids are resilient, honest and incredibly inspiring. Even during difficult moments, they can bring joy, laughter and perspective. Being able to help make their experience a little easier — and sometimes even brighter — is the most rewarding part of my job.

Akron Children’s President and CEO Chris Gessner presents Dr. Jessica Tattershall with the “Chief Moment Officer” award for delivering an exceptional patient experience.

When you read the feedback from this thankful grandmother, how did it make you feel?

It was deeply touching and humbling. Knowing that something I did helped comfort not just a patient, but an entire family, reminds me why these moments matter. It reinforced that kindness and presence can have a lasting impact.

This award truly reflects the incredible support of my office, which is integral to everything I do each day. I am grateful to work alongside such dedicated people who share a commitment to creating meaningful moments for those we serve. Taking the time to listen, to care and to show compassion is at the heart of our work. I am proud to be part of a team that lives these values every day.

With a busy patient schedule, how do you make it a priority to connect with patients and their families during the visit?

Even small moments matter. I try to be fully present — sitting down, listening, making eye contact, acknowledging and validating their concerns. A few genuine minutes of connection can make a big difference. Being kind to patients and their families is not difficult when you remember they trust us during vulnerable times and look to us for guidance. I try to approach all encounters with curiosity.

What does family-centered care mean to you?

Family-centered care means recognizing that caring for a child also means caring for their family. It’s about respect, communication, compassion and partnership — making sure families feel heard, supported and included every step of the way.