Erika Fernandez, MD

Erika Fernandez, MD

Dr. Fernandez has been a dedicated neonatologist for more than 20 years, passionately caring for the tiniest and newest members of the Santa Barbara and Central Coast community. She had the honor of training residents, fellows and neonatal nurse practitioners over the past 20 years as an Associate Professor prior to joining Cottage two years ago.

Since joining Cottage, she has become the director of the Cottage Residency NICU rotation and has developed a robust teaching schedule for our trainees as well as regular mock codes. She finds immense joy in connecting with fellow healthcare professionals who share her commitment to improving the lives of babies. She has actively participated in various organizations, all aimed at advancing newborn healthcare, including service as a Pediatric Representative on IRBs, a research investigator on multiple studies, chair of the AAP District VIII Neonatal conference, president of the Western Society of Pediatric Research and as treasurer for the California Association of Neonatologists (CAN). She has always focused on building strong community collaborations.

But Dr. Fernandez’s life isn’t all about work—she’s a thrill-seeker at heart! Whether she’s skydiving, belting out tunes at karaoke or with live bands, catching the latest Avengers movie, or just trying out the newest activities like Orange Theory or Flamenco dancing, she’s always up for an adventure and her zest for life is as boundless as her passion for neonatology!

Education

  • Medical School: University of New Mexico School of Medicine in Albuquerque
  • Residency: University of New Mexico in Albuquerque
  • Fellowship: University of New Mexico in Albuquerque