Office Practicum Names Dr. Barbara Periard as Chief Medical Officer

FORT WASHINGTON, Pa., Sept. 24, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Office Practicum, a leading provider of pediatric-specialty electronic health records (EHR) solutions, has appointed Dr. Barbara Periard as its new Chief Medical Officer. This move aims to enhance the company's clinical strategy and technology development, ensuring that its solutions remain closely aligned with the needs of pediatric practices.

Dr. Periard brings extensive experience in pediatrics, practice leadership, and technology to the role. She previously served as the President of Forest Hills Pediatric Associates, where she also practiced as a pediatrician. Dr. Periard has been a longtime customer of Office Practicum and has contributed her expertise to the company's Clinical Advisory Board for six years. Her involvement has helped improve clinical and operational efficiency for pediatric practices, particularly through her insights at industry conferences such as OP Engage, the company's annual user conference.

Mike Ressel, CEO of Office Practicum, expressed enthusiasm about Dr. Periard's appointment.

Dr. Periard's career journey reflects a blend of clinical and administrative expertise. She began her career in technology, earning an engineering degree and working as a computer consultant before pursuing medicine. This background has allowed her to integrate her clinical expertise with a strong interest in data and operational efficiency. Dr. Periard has held both clinical and administrative leadership roles within her practice and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is also a member of its SOAPM and COCIT committees, and has spoken extensively on pediatric and practice management topics, including the use of generative AI in pediatric clinical care. Additionally, Dr. Periard co-authored the AAP policy statement on the use of generative AI in pediatric clinical care, which is expected to be published in November.

In her new role, Dr. Periard will focus on advocating for clinicians, practice owners, and practice managers. Having experienced each of these roles herself and having used Office Practicum's EHR for 17 years, she understands firsthand the challenges pediatric practices face. Dr. Periard is committed to ensuring that Office Practicum continues to evolve in ways that make technology a more powerful tool for practice success and ultimately, for taking care of kids.

Office Practicum is dedicated to supporting independent pediatric practices throughout the stages of a child's development. Its solutions encompass clinical and operational workflows supported by pediatric AI, patient engagement, and financial management, helping practices stay competitive and sustainable in an era of consolidation.