Tom Benton, MD
Dr. Benton graduated from the University of Florida in 1985. He completed his residency at Baylor College of Medicine (Houston, Texas) in 1988. He has been in private practice in Gainesville every since. He is also an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Florida.
Along with Drs. Boccarossa, Trumbull, and Zanga, he was a co-founder of the American College of Pediatricians (www.BestforChildren.org). He currently serves as the College’s President.
Dr. Benton was a member of the Florida Chapter of the AAP executive committee from 1999 to 2003. He is not currently a member of the AAP.
He has been a member of the Christian Medical and Dental Association since 1996.
Dr. Benton has served his local community in ways that include: participation in the local Safe Kids organization, serving on the Board of the local YMCA, serving on the board of the local Crisis Pregnancy Center, and as a member of the Emergency Medical Service Citizens Advisory Board. Dr. Benton has been on medical mission trips to the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Haiti, and Nicaragua.
Dr. Benton and his wife Kathy have five children. The oldest is 26 years old, married and has a child. Their 24 year old served as a U.S. Marine, is married and in college. Another currently attends college and got married in June of this year. His 15 year old is in high school and his 11 year old is in middle school. He and his wife are members of Servants of Christ Anglican Church in Gainesville, Florida.
Elizma Mercier PA-C
Elizma comes to Benton Pediatrics from South Africa by way of Georgia. She has practiced pediatrics for 7 years and joined Benton Pediatrics in September 2006. She enjoys tennis, reading, gardening, playing piano and attending church. She knows that each child is a blessing from God and considers it a privilege to serve our patients and their families. Elizma and her husband believe that God brought them to Gainesville to make a difference in the lives of others and they continue to enjoy living in Gator country.
Beth Justice, CPNP
Beth came to us as a nurse practitioner student in January of 2007. Following her graduation from Vanderbilt University in August, she came on as a part of the friendliest pediatrics office in Gainesville. She grew up in the area, attending GHS (go Canes!) and feels led of her Father to serve the children here with all of her ability.
Kim Parker
Kim has been with Benton Pediatrics since 1994. She is our front office supervisor and insurance specialist.
Front Office
Mary, Jeannie, and Trina keep the practice running. Generally when you call, it is Mary’s pleasant voice that answers the phone. When you leave, we will gladly help you make your next appointment and see that your insurance company knows you have been in.
When the phones are ringing like crazy, everyone pitches in to get the calls answered….
Referrals are handled by Leslie.
Nursing Staff
We have an outstanding group of nurses: Jessica, Ashley, and Jennifer. We all work together as a team and pitch in.
