Biography

Ashley Christina Polachek, M.D., is a Pediatric Gastroenterologist at Children’s Health℠ and an Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern. She cares for children with a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions and has specialized expertise in pancreatic disease, including acute, recurrent and chronic pancreatitis, as well as congenital and structural pancreatic disorders.

“I love pediatric gastroenterology because it allows me to build meaningful, lasting relationships with children and their families,” Dr. Polachek says. “I have a special passion for pancreatic disease because of the collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to care and the opportunity to help children feel better, optimize their nutrition, and get back to the activities that bring them joy.”

Dr. Polachek earned her medical degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo School of Medicine. She completed her Pediatrics residency at Rush University Medical Center and a fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Dr. Polachek’s research interests include acute pancreatitis and recurrent and chronic pancreatitis. Her published research has also explored a range of pediatric gastrointestinal conditions, including pancreatic disorders, Meckel’s diverticulum, intestinal lymphatic anomalies and gastrointestinal conditions in children.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Polachek enjoys spending time with her family and golden retriever, playing basketball, traveling and cheering on the Buffalo Bills.

Biography