Preferred Pediatrics is becoming Sunshine Pediatrics — a proud Children’s Mercy Kansas City Affiliate

For over 46 years, it has been our privilege to care for the children of this community and to be part of your family’s journey. We are excited to share some big news with you: starting March 1, 2026, Preferred Pediatrics will be changing our name to Sunshine Pediatrics and becoming a Children’s Mercy Affiliate. While our name is changing, one thing will never change—our commitment to providing your children with compassionate, exceptional, and evidence-based care as they grow.

Dr. Allison Hettinger, Dr. Amy Voelker, Dr. Shawna Patch and Dr. Connor Hosty will remain fully committed to your child’s health and will continue providing the care you know and trust. You’ll also continue to see the same great staff and friendly faces you know and trust when you walk through our doors. As part of this next chapter, our affiliation with Children’s Mercy Hospital will strengthen our access to pediatric specialists and the latest advancements in pediatric care—allowing us to better serve your family.

With this transition, we will have some changes to insurance coverage. For a full list of insurance coverage, please visit: choosechildrensmercy.org. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our Office Manager at 913-764-7060.

We are excited about this transition and confident that Sunshine Pediatrics – A Children’s Mercy Affiliate will enhance our ability to care for your children for many years to come.

Stay Healthy KC,

Dr. Hettinger, Dr. Hosty, Dr. Patch and Dr. Voelker