Frequently Asked Questions
We know that raising a child comes with a million questions, and we’re honored to be part of your family’s journey. Below, you’ll find answers to the questions we hear most often.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office directly. There’s no such thing as a question too small when it comes to your child’s health.
What is SOCPA?
Southern Orange County Pediatric Associates (SOCPA) is a multi-location pediatric practice dedicated to delivering quality healthcare to infants, children, adolescents, and young adults up to age 21. SOCPA is part of Rady Children’s Health.
Where are your locations?
We conveniently have four offices throughout Orange County:
- Irvine: 114 Pacifica, Suite 260, Irvine, CA 92618
- Ladera Ranch: 777 Corporate Drive, Suite 250, Ladera Ranch, CA 92694 — (949) 388-1798
- Rancho Santa Margarita: 30212 Tomas, Suite 220, RSM, CA 92688 — (949) 858-1100
- San Clemente: 1300 Avenida Vista Hermosa, Suite 200, San Clemente, CA 92673 — (949) 429-7700
See full details on our Locations page.
What are your office hours?
All locations are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 11:30 am and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Our Ladera Ranch office also offers after-hours sick care Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays by appointment.
How do I schedule an appointment?
To book an appointment, call (949) 770-4242.
You see patients up to age 21. Is that unusual?
Yes, most pediatric practices see patients through age 18. We extend care to young adults up to age 21 because we believe in continuity. Staying with a trusted provider during the transition to adulthood can make a real difference in long-term health outcomes.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. Visit our Visiting Our Office page to get started.
Do you see expecting or new parents before the baby arrives?
Yes. We encourage expectant parents to schedule a meet-and-greet before their baby is born. Visit our Expecting Parents page for more information.
What services do you offer?
Across all four locations, we offer:
- Well-child visits and check-ups
- Sick visits
- Immunizations
- Sports and school physicals
- Management of ongoing and chronic conditions
- Referrals to Rady Children’s Health specialists
What is your immunization policy?
Our practice follows the vaccination schedule set by the AAP. These guidelines are developed by some of the world’s leading pediatric health experts and are based on decades of scientific research.
We want to be transparent about this: our commitment to the recommended vaccine schedule is not political. It is medical. Vaccines are among the most thoroughly studied interventions in the history of medicine, and the schedule is carefully designed to protect children at the ages when they are most vulnerable.
We also understand that in today’s world, it can be hard to know who or what to trust. If you have questions, doubts, or things you’ve read or heard that concern you, we genuinely want to hear them. Our door is open for those conversations — always kindly, always without judgment. Your child’s safety is our shared goal.
Learn more on our Immunizations page.
What do I do if my child gets sick after hours?
We partner with Rady Children’s Health to offer several options when our office is closed:
- 24/7 Nurse Advice Line: Call 1-844-GET-CHOC for free, round-the-clock guidance from pediatric healthcare experts. This line can also connect you to a virtual physician visit when needed.
- Pediatric Urgent Care: For non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that need in-person evaluation, Rady Children’s Health has urgent care locations available in Irvine and Orange.
- Emergency: If your child is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately. See our pediatric emergency departments here.
See our After-Hours Care page for full details.
When should I use urgent care vs. the emergency room?
Urgent care is appropriate for non-life-threatening situations such as:
- Ear infections, sore throats, or minor infections
- Minor cuts, sprains, or injuries
- Fever in children over 3 months who are otherwise stable
- Vomiting or diarrhea without signs of severe dehydration
Go to the ER or call 911 for situations such as:
- Difficulty breathing or turning blue
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
- Severe allergic reactions
- Head injuries with confusion or repeated vomiting
- Any fever in a baby under 3 months old
Not sure? Call 1-844-GET-CHOC and a pediatric nurse will help you decide.
What insurance do you accept?
We accept a wide range of insurance plans. Learn more on our Insurance and Billing page. Please call (949) 770-4242 to confirm your specific plan.

