Our Story

Three generations of Altoona families, one pediatric home

Pediatric Healthcare Associates was founded in 1978 by Dr. Joseph D'Cruz and Dr. Mohamad Moussa, on a simple belief: children heal best when their care feels personal, patient, and close to home.

Nearly five decades later, we're still an independent, physician-led practice — now caring for a third generation of the same Altoona families we started with, and welcoming Roaring Spring families to our newest office since 2025.

A PHCA provider with a young patient
45+
Years in practice
2
Altoona-area offices
20,000+
Children cared for
24/7
On-call physician
What We Stand For

Our values, in practice

Child-first, always

Every decision — from waiting-room layout to appointment length — is made around what's best for the child in front of us.

Access when it matters

Same-day sick visits and a physician on call 24/7, because pediatric worries don't wait for business hours.

Partnership with parents

You know your child best. We listen first, explain clearly, and make decisions with you, not just for you.

Evidence-based care

Our guidance follows AAP and CDC standards — no fads, no shortcuts, just care you can trust.

Our Services

Comprehensive care for every stage of childhood

Our comprehensive services address a wide range of patient needs, including preventive medicine, acute and chronic illnesses, developmental and behavioral concerns, adolescent care, multiple births, and prematurity.

With a dedication to advances in clinical care, customer service, and technology, we are committed to providing the most advanced pediatric health care available.

Require Hospitalization?

Hospital Affiliation

If a member of your family requires hospitalization, we have privileges at:

UPMC Altoona
620 Howard Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601-4899
(814) 889-2011

After the admission, please follow your insurance company's requirements to reduce your risk of payment problems.

Our History

45+ years of pediatric care

1978

Dr. Joseph D'Cruz and Dr. Mohamad Moussa found PHCA in Altoona, with a promise of same-day care for sick kids.

1994

The practice adds a certified lactation consultant and expands newborn support for new parents.

2020

Separate well and sick waiting rooms are introduced practice-wide for calmer, safer visits.

2025

A second office opens in Roaring Spring, bringing full pediatric care closer to the valley.

Today

A team of physicians and nurse practitioners cares for three generations of Altoona-area families.

Have any questions?

Feel free to contact us anytime — (814) 944-7383