Advocare Welcomes First State Pediatrics

Marlton, NJ – March 1, 2025 - Advocare, a physician-owned, multispecialty medical group with a network of over 800 providers, continues to expand its reach into Delaware by welcoming First State Pediatrics. This partnership reflects a shared vision of excellence in pediatric care and reinforces Advocare’s commitment to expanding access to top-tier healthcare services to the families of Delaware.

The ownership team of First State Pediatrics includes Dr. Amy Chang, Dr. Kathleen Leach, Dr. John Murphy, Dr. Robert Olivieri, and Dr. Lauren Healy Scarpaci. Each physician brings extensive experience, a passion for pediatric medicine, and a strong commitment to the health and well-being of their patients.

Dr. Robert Olivieri earned his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences after undergraduate studies at Hobart College and Columbia University. He completed his pediatric residency at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda and has been practicing ambulatory pediatrics at the Hockessin office since 1998. His interests include infant care, parenting, respiratory and infectious diseases, ADHD, nutrition, and adolescent care. A board-certified pediatrician and Fellow of the AAP, he and his wife, Dr. Nancy Petit, have three children.

Dr. Lauren Healy Scarpaci, a Wilmington native, earned her psychology degree from Boston College before attending Thomas Jefferson Medical College. She completed her pediatric residency at Emory University and has provided care at the Hockessin office since 2000. A board-certified pediatrician, she enjoys jogging, beach trips, and family time with her husband and three daughters.

Dr. Amy Chang earned her BA and MD from The George Washington University and completed her pediatric residency at Thomas Jefferson University/AI duPont Hospital. A board-certified pediatrician, she has been with the Hockessin practice since 2004 and enjoys reading, traveling, music, and church activities.

Dr. John Murphy, a Delaware native, earned his biology degree from St. Joseph’s University before attending Georgetown University School of Medicine, where he also completed his pediatric residency. A board-certified pediatrician, he has been with the Newark practice since 2000 and enjoys golf and family time with his wife and three children.

Dr. Kathleen Leach, from suburban Philadelphia, earned her BS from Bates College before attending Drexel University College of Medicine. She completed her residency at Thomas Jefferson University/AI duPont Hospital and has been with the practice since 2006. A board-certified pediatrician and Fellow of the AAP, she enjoys tennis, skiing, pottery, and time with her husband and son.

“We are delighted to welcome First State Pediatrics to the Advocare family,” said Howard Orel, MD, President and CEO of Advocare. “Their dedication to providing high-quality, compassionate care aligns perfectly with our mission. By joining forces, we are strengthening our ability to deliver outstanding pediatric care to even more families, ensuring that children receive the best possible medical attention.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Advocare First State Pediatrics, please visit www.advocarefirststatepediatrics.com.

ABOUT ADVOCARE

Advocare, LLC ("Advocare") is a physician-owned and governed multi-specialty medical group operating in New Jersey and the greater Philadelphia metropolitan region.

Founded in 1998 as an alliance of 26 physicians, Advocare has grown to become widely recognized and highly respected as one of the region's largest multi-specialty groups providing the highest-quality healthcare.

With over 800 providers and 250+ Care Center offices, Advocare serves approximately 800,000 unique patients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Advocare physicians are regularly recognized among the region's top doctors by both patients and consumer publications.

PROVIDER CONTACT

Mahbod Mohazzebi, MD 
Chairperson, Market Development 
Committee and Member, Executive Council 
mmohazzebi@advocaredoctors.com

MARKETING/MEDIA CONTACT 

Diane Kidawa 
Director of Marketing 
856-446-6529 x124 
dkidawa1@advocaredoctors.com