Whether you are a new parent or already have kids, at some point, you are going to need some help and advice regarding the health and well-being of your kids. This will mean finding a pediatrician in your area who offers the most relevant services for your kid.
What is a pediatrician?
A pediatrician is a doctor that specializes in different areas of child medicine and who will be able to diagnose and treat a variety of childhood ailments. Also, they can conduct regular physicals to ensure your child is developing well, both physically and emotionally.
Throughout your child’s growth from baby to adult, your pediatrician and clinical team will be on-hand to provide advice, information, and reassurance, hopefully taking some of the stress out of being a parent.
What does a doctor need to get a license to practice Pediatrics?
It takes time and perseverance to become a qualified pediatrician, and even though the requirements vary from state-to-state, they generally follow these guidelines:
- Undergraduate Degree in, preferably, a Math and/or Science focus
- A Four-Year Medical School Program
- Pass the US Medical Exam
- Residency (This varies depending on the state and specialty chosen)
What to look for in a pediatrician?
The gold standard of pediatrics in America is being ‘board-certified,’ which means they have undergone a rigorous training program and made a commitment to continue looking for ways to improve the standard of care they offer. As a parent, this gives you assurances that you have access to first-class care.
One of the key features of being board-certified is a commitment to excellent patient care and communication skills. This is vitally important as both you and your child should feel comfortable when you visit the clinic, and not feel embarrassed to ask questions. So, when you are looking for a pediatrician for your child, take the time to visit the clinic and meet the doctor face-to-face. This will give you an excellent opportunity to see if the doctor will be the right fit for you and your family.
Benefits of Registering with a Pediatrician
Babies – Pediatricians can help you during pregnancy and in the first three years when you will visit them for regular checkups. Some pediatricians specialize in this kind of medicine and have a wealth of experience to help you during the exciting, but stressful times of parenthood. They will give you information on common conditions, vaccinations, sleep, and any area where you feel you need some more guidance.
Toddlers – As your little ones become not so little ones, you will want to make sure they are growing healthily. You may have concerns about their physical development, behavior, or eating habits. Many of these problems will be easily solved or may not be problems at all. As pediatricians are trained in children’s health, they will be familiar with all kind of growth-related issues and advise you accordingly, investigating further if required.
Kids to Adults – Pediatricians are there for you and your family all the way through your child’s journey into adulthood, and offer a wide range of services designed to make the transition as smooth as possible. Each clinic is different, but they will usually provide physicals for school and sports, confidential advice for issues relating to growing pains and sexual health, as well as help with behavioral and emotional problems.