By Dr. Tamara Zach MD — May 20, 2026
Finding the Right Pediatric Epilepsy Specialist in Phoenix, AZ
When a child experiences a seizure, it can be one of the most frightening moments a family faces. Whether your child has just had their first episode or has been living with a seizure disorder for some time, finding the right specialist makes all the difference. At Rose Medical Pavilion, Dr. Tamara Zach MD provides comprehensive, compassionate care for children and adolescents with epilepsy throughout the greater Phoenix area — combining clinical expertise with a deep understanding of what Arizona families need at every stage of diagnosis and treatment.
If you're searching for a pediatric epilepsy specialist in Phoenix, this guide will walk you through what to expect from an evaluation, how epilepsy is diagnosed and managed in children, and how local Arizona resources can support your family along the way.
What Is Pediatric Epilepsy — and Is It Common?
Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurring, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is one of the most common neurological disorders in childhood, affecting approximately 1 in 150 children in the United States. Seizures can look very different from child to child — some involve dramatic convulsions, while others may appear as brief staring spells, sudden muscle jerks, or subtle behavioral changes that are easy to miss.
Not every seizure means a child has epilepsy. Febrile seizures triggered by high fevers, for example, are relatively common in young children and often resolve on their own. Understanding the distinction — and getting an accurate diagnosis — is exactly why a specialist evaluation matters. Learn more about the different types of pediatric seizures and what symptoms families should watch for.
How Dr. Tamara Zach MD Approaches Epilepsy Diagnosis
Dr. Zach is a board-certified pediatric neurologist with specialized training in epilepsy and seizure disorders. At Rose Medical Pavilion, she takes a thorough, individualized approach to every child — because no two cases are alike, and no two families have exactly the same concerns or circumstances.
The Initial Evaluation
During a first appointment, Dr. Zach will conduct a detailed review of your child's medical and developmental history, a comprehensive neurological examination, and a careful discussion of seizure events — including what happened before, during, and after each episode. Families are encouraged to bring video recordings of seizures when possible, as these can be extremely valuable in guiding diagnosis.
Diagnostic Testing
Epilepsy diagnosis typically involves one or more of the following:
- Electroencephalogram (EEG): This painless brain-wave test is one of the most important tools for detecting abnormal electrical activity. A pediatric EEG performed and interpreted by an experienced specialist can help identify the seizure type and guide treatment decisions.
- MRI of the Brain: Neuroimaging helps identify structural causes of epilepsy, such as cortical malformations or lesions.
- Blood and Genetic Testing: In some cases, lab work or genetic panels help identify underlying conditions contributing to seizure activity.
Dr. Zach explains every step of the process clearly so that parents and older children understand what each test means — and what comes next.
Epilepsy Treatment Options for Children in Phoenix
There is no single "right" treatment for every child with epilepsy. Dr. Zach works collaboratively with families to develop personalized management plans based on seizure type, frequency, underlying cause, and the child's overall health and developmental needs.
Anti-Seizure Medications
Medication remains the first-line treatment for most forms of childhood epilepsy. With more than 20 FDA-approved anti-seizure medications available today, finding the right fit may take time and careful adjustment. Dr. Zach monitors each child closely for both seizure control and potential side effects, making adjustments as needed throughout development.
Dietary and Neuromodulation Therapies
For children whose seizures are not well-controlled with medication, additional options may include the ketogenic diet, the modified Atkins diet, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), or evaluation for epilepsy surgery. Dr. Zach coordinates with multidisciplinary teams at Phoenix-area children's hospitals when advanced interventions are warranted.
Arizona-Specific Considerations
Families in Arizona face a few unique circumstances worth noting. Phoenix's intense summer heat can increase the risk of dehydration, which in turn can lower seizure thresholds — making hydration strategies especially important for children with epilepsy during Arizona summers. Additionally, families navigating insurance and services should be aware of AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System), Arizona's Medicaid program, which covers pediatric neurology services for eligible children. For younger children with developmental concerns related to epilepsy, AzEIP — the Arizona Early Intervention Program — can provide coordinated support services for children under age three.
What Families Can Expect at Rose Medical Pavilion
From the moment you contact our office, the team at Rose Medical Pavilion is committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for both children and parents. Dr. Zach takes time to listen, answer questions thoroughly, and provide clear guidance so that families feel informed and supported — not rushed or overwhelmed.
Our goal is never simply to manage seizures. It's to help your child thrive. That means considering the whole child: school performance, sleep, emotional wellbeing, and quality of life are all part of the conversation. For families who want to learn more about Dr. Zach's background and approach to pediatric neurology, visit our page about Dr. Tamara Zach MD.
When to Seek an Evaluation
You should schedule an appointment with a child epilepsy doctor in Phoenix if your child has:
- Experienced more than one unprovoked seizure
- Had a first seizure with no clear triggering cause
- Been diagnosed with epilepsy but is still having breakthrough seizures
- Shown staring spells, unexplained falls, or repetitive movements that concern you
- Experienced side effects from current anti-seizure medications
Early, accurate diagnosis and expert management give children with epilepsy the best possible long-term outcomes. You don't have to navigate this alone.
Schedule an Appointment at Rose Medical Pavilion
If you're looking for a trusted epilepsy specialist in Phoenix, AZ for your child, Dr. Tamara Zach MD and the team at Rose Medical Pavilion are here to help. We welcome new patients and understand that getting answers quickly matters deeply to families. Reach out today to schedule your child's evaluation — because every child deserves specialized, expert neurological care close to home.
Schedule an Appointment
Questions about your child's neurological health? Dr. Tamara Zach MD at Rose Medical Pavilion is here to help. Call (623) 257-ROSE (7673) or schedule online.