David Garner, DO

I’m a resident child neurologist with a special interest in pediatric sleep medicine. During my pediatric residency, my mentor and a patient whom I encountered during my intern year greatly influenced my career path. The patient had autoimmune encephalitis, and I decided I wanted to help patients with this and other neurological conditions. I realized that neurology gave me an opportunity to discuss sleep issues with families while also having a broader spectrum of practice.

I believe that how we care for patients is of paramount importance, and that spending a few extra minutes with them can make a significant difference in the doctor-patient relationship.

As one of the few doctors of osteopathy in child neurology, I use the skills I learned during my training to treat the whole patient, not just the disease. As the only board-certified pediatrician currently in neurology training, I feel confident taking care of children with a wide range of neurological conditions.

In my research, I am looking into adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which are prevalent in the general population. Functional neurologic symptoms are a common reaction to stress, and I’m trying to determine if increased ACEs are associated with intensified neurologic symptoms that don’t have an obvious medical cause.

I was honored to receive the 2019 Robert C. Spahr Award for Excellence in the Area of Newborn Medicine from Geisinger. This award is given by the neonatal intensive care unit attendings to one resident each year. I also received the 2019 Pediatric Resident Recognition Award from the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics for dedication to the health and well-being of the children of Pennsylvania.

In my free time, I enjoy playing board games with family and friends and taking long runs. I also enjoy spending time with my four daughters and my beautiful wife, especially going on family bike rides.