We are pleased to introduce Dr. Melvin Mathai, the newest member of our pediatrics team at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.
Dr. Mathai attended Hofstra University for his undergraduate degree and The New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) for his medical degree. He completed his residency at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Mathai is board-eligible and holds certifications in ACLS, PALS, and NRP.
Dr. Mathai was drawn to a career in medicine because it combines science, problem-solving, and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, as well as the ability to build long-term relationships with his patients while positively impacting their health and well-being. He chose pediatrics as his specialty because it felt like a natural fit for him, and he enjoys working with children and families. “I wanted to be a part of a child’s growth and development over time. I love the energy, honesty, and resilience of children, and I find it incredibly rewarding to help guide parents through each stage of their child’s life, from newborn care to adolescence.” Dr. Mathai believes that pediatrics allows him to focus on prevention, education, and building trust with families. “I hope to provide compassionate, thoughtful, and accessible care while creating a welcoming environment where families feel heard and supported”, he said.
As a pediatrician, Dr. Mathai provides comprehensive outpatient pediatric care, which includes well-childcare visits, newborn care, vaccinations, developmental and behavioral concerns, and adolescent health. He also evaluates and manages common child illnesses, which include asthma, allergies, eczema, infections, minor injuries, anxiety, and school-related issues.
Born and raised in Queens, Dr. Mathai is proud to serve as a pediatrician in such a close-knit, family-oriented community like Howard Beach because it is the community in which he grew up. He returned home to provide compassionate, culturally informed care to the families who shaped him. “I’ve always loved the diversity, energy, and incredible food that make this area so special, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community,” he said.
Dr. Mathai is a proud Gold Humanism Award recipient, a massive Knicks fan (yes, he still believes every year is their year), and an anime geek at heart. When he’s not in the office, he is usually chasing after his two little kids, who keep him laughing—and humbled—daily.
His goal as a pediatrician is simple: “Partner with parents, answer questions honestly, and help families feel confident about their child’s health. I strive to practice evidence-based and personable medicine while treating every child as if they were my own,” he said. He wants to make families feel supported, make kids feel safe, and bring high-quality, down-to-earth care to every visit. “I hope to help build a healthier, happier community, one tiny sneaker at a time,” he said.
His hours at the Jamaica Hospital, Howard Beach location are:
M: 7 AM – 5 PM
T: 9 AM – 7 PM
W: Off
R: 7 AM – 5 PM
F: 7 AM – 5 PM
Every third Saturday of the month
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