Primary care is the first resource for healthcare. Our pediatric department offers comprehensive primary health care to tribal members from birth up to the age of 21. Your child's pediatrician will coordinate care with other services offered at NTHS for a comprehensive look to their overall health. Comprehensive health care encompasses disease prevention, screenings, diagnosis and treatment, education, recommendation and advisement, and coordination of care. As a result of providing comprehensive health care, your child's pediatrician can regularly monitor and track changes in the child's health to make informed decisions based on their needs.
Our pediatricians focus on wellness and prevention services, acute care, and chronic health conditions. Services include well-child examinations, screenings, immunizations, and health education guidance.
For more information about scheduling an appointment, please call (918) 332-4309.

Dr. Melanie Mester is a Doctor of Medicine, Board Certified with the American Board of Pediatrics, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2016 and completed pediatrics residency at the University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine in 2019. Dr. Mester has accomplishment much in her professional career and the multitude of awards, medals, and letter/certifications of appreciation are testimonial. In 2023, she was the recipient of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Uniformed Services Chapter East Outstanding Young Pediatrician Award which is a regional award denoting a substantial positive impact to the pediatric community and admirable leadership qualities and initiatives. Listed are some of the medals Dr. Mester received, in 2024, Commendation Medal, Outstanding Unit Citation, and Unit Commendation. From 2020-2023, Achievement Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Hazardous Duty Service Award, and the COVID-19 Pandemic Campaign Medal. Dr. Mester serves as a mentor, educational presenter, and leader. She is also a published author. Dr. Mester is dedicated to the continuous learning and teaching for the betterment of healthcare service provided to children and young adults.

Kara North is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with over twenty-five years of experience. She graduated from NEO A&M College with an Assoicate Degree in Nursing and Pittsburg State University with a bachelor's in nursing. Kara received a master's in nursing at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine. In 2020, Kara was the recipient of the Best of the Best Pediatrics Office. She is a member of National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Kara is largely involved in the tribal community. She is a Peoria Tribe member and serves as a board member and housing board member for the Peoria Tribe.
Dr. Melanie Mester, M.D., LCDR
Kara North, CPNP
Northeastern Tribal Health System
7600 S Highway 69A, Miami, Oklahoma 74354, United States
