Dr. Hassan Alzein, along with everyone here at Alzein Pediatrics warmly welcomes Josefina Batista, M.D. to the practice.
“Dr. Batista’s deep interest in pediatric advocacy and global health reinforces her belief that all children, regardless of background or socioeconomic status, deserve equitable and innovative care,” said Dr. Alzein. “Our patient families will find Dr. Batista will be a valuable and vibrant addition to our Alzein health care team.”
Dr. Batista earned her Associate degree at the University of Florida before completing her Doctor of Medicine degree at Saint James School of Medicine in Kralendijk, Bonaire in Netherland Antilles. She is board certified and speaks both English and Spanish.
Besides diagnosing and treating a variety of pediatric conditions including development concerns, injuries and diseases, Dr. Batista has experience in integrating psychiatric care for pediatric patients within the Riverside Health System in Kankakee, working with the impact of homelessness on children and treating pediatric obesity with the John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County, and providing culturally sensitive care at the Native Hawaiian Healing Center.
When Dr. Batista was 13, she noticed a rash on her father’s skin, and turned to her physician mother’s medical books. She discovered that the rash could indicate diabetes, a diagnosis that was later confirmed. “At the time, my father wasn’t experiencing any symptoms, so this early detection might have even saved his life,” says Dr. Batista. “That experience had a profound impact on me, revealing how knowledge and attention to detail could truly affect someone’s health.”
“Growing up with my mother, my role model, who is an internal medicine physician, I saw firsthand the dedication and empathy that go into good medical care. Healthcare became a natural choice, allowing me to combine my interests in science, advocacy, and human connection. Pediatrics offers a unique chance to advocate for patients at a formative time in their lives, and work with the families of patients, making an impact that often extends beyond the individual child to the family as a whole.”
Dr. Batista has a culturally rich background. Born in the U.S., she grew up in New England and Central Florida, with roots in the Dominican Republic and Cuba. She is a singer and songwriter, performing with her partner in a band. She loves to explore Chicago’s food scene.
“Our patient families will find Dr. Batista listens with open ears and an open mind, communicating the diagnosis and treatment plan clearly,” said Dr. Alzein. “Please join us in welcoming Dr. Josefina Batista to Alzein Pediatrics.