Main offices:  Park Slope  

Joao Neto, MD

-Medical School: Universidade de Itauna, Itaúna, Brazil
-Residency: VTC – Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia
-Additional languages: Portuguese and conversational Spanish

Q&A with Dr. Joao Neto

How did you get into pediatrics?
For me, Pediatrics offers a unique opportunity to care for the whole family. Carrying for Kids and Teens gives me the opportunity to support families during these formative years by empowering families to navigate the challenges for raising healthy, happy children. Witnessing my patient grow into successful adults is my greatest reward 🙂

Where did you grow up?
Divinopolis, a small town in Minas Gerais, Brazil. It is a place known for its delicious food and incredibly warm, welcoming people.

Where do you live?
I currently live in Brooklyn. It’s a big change from my small hometown in terms of size and pace. But the food is fantastic, and I’ve been fortunate to meet some very welcoming people, so it’s starting to feel like home.

What do you enjoy most about working in your neighborhood office?
I really appreciate the sense of community in a neighborhood office. It’s nice to see familiar faces and build relationships with people who live and work in the same area. It is also very convenient, since it cuts down commute time, allowing more time for enjoying other things which helps maintaining a better work-life balance.

What keeps you motivated?
Witnessing a child’s health improve and knowing that I’ve played a role in supporting their growth and well-being, that’s incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about treating illnesses, it’s about empowering children to reach their full potential. Those moments, when you see a child smile or a parent express their gratitude, those are the moments that fuel my passion and keep me going, even during challenging times. Seeing kids thriving is at the core of my motivation.

What do you do for fun?
I enjoy a mix of creative and active pursuits. I’m fascinated by high-tech, exploring the metaverse, and 3D printing. To stay active, I hit the gym and enjoy the energy and expression of street dance. And finally, I love experimenting in the kitchen, modifying recipes to be healthier without sacrificing flavor – the joy 🙂