Meet the Primary Care Pediatric Providers

UH Pediatric Clinical Update | February 2023

Elana Richter, CPNP-PC, CLC, UH Rainbow Lorain Pediatrics

Elana Richter, CNP-PC, CLC

How old were you when you felt the call to become a nurse practitioner?

In high school, thinking about my future career I knew I wanted to work with children. My mother and grandmother had been nurses, and my grandfather, aunt and great grandfather had been physicians.  So healthcare was a logical choice for me.

Who or what inspires you and why?

My friends who are also working moms. 

Dog or cat?

I have a black labradoodle named Maeve.

Coffee or tea?

Coffee

Cavs, Guardians or Browns?

Packers

Favorite book (outside of medical journals)?

The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn

People would be surprised to know that I …

Have biked across the state of Ohio 6 times as part of the Pan Ohio Hope Ride. As a member of Team UH Seidman, we raise funds for the Hope Lodge in Cleveland and Cincinnati. We're always looking for new team members!  Shoot me an email if interested.

Joseph Paxitzis, CNP, UH Rainbow Children’s Medical Group

Joseph Paxitzis, CNP

How old were you when you felt the call to become a nurse practitioner?

I knew I wanted to work in healthcare all the way back in my middle school years.  I was 19 years old when I started my career in healthcare working as a pediatric nurse intern. It was my goal to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at that age.

Who or what inspires you and why?

… my father who worked for the same company for 48 years. He never complained about working long hours and showed me the work ethic it takes to succeed.

Dog or cat?

Dogs over cats

Coffee or tea?

I prefer coffee over tea but enjoy both!

Cavs, Guardians or Browns?

Browns are my favorite Cleveland sports team although it is not always easy

Favorite book (outside of medical journals)?

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

People would be surprised to know that I …

… was a high school quarterback and football coach.