A mother is always confused, whether to consult a pediatrician or visit the family doctor for the healthcare needs of her child. Pediatrics are doctors trained to treat the behavioral, physical, and mental issues of children under 18. There are several experienced pediatricians here in Jacksonville, Florida. They diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses and health problems that might develop during childhood.
A dedicated pediatrician is any day a preferable choice for your child’s healthcare because they are trained to treat only children, hence they have added experience in treating and recognizing illnesses related to children. This article will help you eliminate the confusion, whether to visit a pediatrician or a family doctor for the healthcare needs of the child:
They are specialists
Pediatricians have specialized training in diagnosing and treating the mental and physical needs of the child. Children have unique medical requirements as compared to adults and they need well-trained and experienced doctors who can deal with their medical problems. They are trained in immunization, growth, and development of the child, common childhood diseases, and inherited disorders.
Accustomed to treating kids
They are trained only to treat kids while family doctors provide consultancy to people of all ages. This segmentation allows them to focus their training, education, and practical knowledge as per the requirements of the kids. To find a good pediatrician near you, just look up Pediatricians in Jacksonville on the internet. An experienced specialist will guide you regarding when your child requires specialists and can provide you with references among their colleagues.
Child-friendly atmosphere
While taking care of the medical needs, the comfort and well-being of the child is a significant factor to consider. Children are vulnerable to getting nervous and stressed in an unfamiliar environment. The office of pediatricians is tailored to cater to the needs of their patients. Therefore, they create a child-friendly atmosphere to relax the tension and make the treatment process effortless.
Immunization
Your baby’s immunization is a legal undertaking along with the health requirement. If you fail to consult a pediatrician, you might end up bringing jail time upon yourself and numerous health issues on your child. Vaccines provide your child with immunity to fight against certain diseases. There are vaccines for various health conditions like chickenpox, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, influenza, HIB vaccine, measles, and many more. The AAP has implemented a child immunization schedule that must be followed if you want your child to grow well.
Annual physicians’ examination
They conduct routine health check-ups, also known as the annual physician’s exams on your child, to physically check the height, weight, and overall body appearance. The doctor will evaluate the growth based on BMI and will compare it to other kids of the same age and gender. They observe things like rolling over, smiling, sitting up, language, walking, and how the kids are using their hands and legs. The doctor also checks the muscle tone and the child’s reflexes. In case, your child is not growing as per your expectations a pediatrician will suggest measures to achieve wellness of the body and apt growth.
Nutritional advice
For the proper growth of your toddler, you need more than immunizations and regular check-ups. Your child needs the appropriate nutrition to ensure growth and a durable immune system. Some children at this point in life are picky regarding what they eat. This makes kids miss out on the crucial nutrients required for their growth. They will ensure that your child gets a balanced diet and the necessary nutrients required for optimum growth. They will suggest food alternatives so that your child gets the daily amount of nutrients.
Fever
It is common for kids to have a fever at some point and it is advisable to take your child to the doctor when they show symptoms of fever. Symptoms such as the stiff neck, headaches, sore throat, ear pain, unexplained rash, vomiting or diarrhea, and body temperature more than 100 degrees, you must consult a specialist immediately. If your child shows signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, or is unable to take in fluids, your child requires immediate medical attention.
Mental health
If your child is showing signs of weak mental health and is suffering from ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression, etc. In such a case, pediatricians must be your first point of consultancy. They are trained to diagnose such symptoms and treat these problems. If the condition is beyond their area of expertise, they can suggest you a child psychiatrist or psychologist.
Availability in case of emergency
If a situation arises, your child requires surgery or a hospital stay. They have the privilege to get your child admitted at the children’s hospital or nearby hospital with an appropriate pediatric ward. This helps your child receive specialized pediatric treatment at a facility equipped to handle kids.
How to choose a suitable one?
You must start looking for a suitable pediatrician at the beginning of your third trimester. This will give you plenty of time to explore the options and have an in-person interview to establish comfort with the doctor. Before finalizing, consider a few things like:
– The reputation
– The training and experience
– If you can communicate your doubts freely to the doctor
– Convenient location
– Easily availability
– How are emergency calls handled?
– Hospital with which the doctor is affiliated with
The above-mentioned points will give you a better insight that will help you make the right decision regarding your children’s healthcare.
Conclusion
Your pediatrician will meet your baby often until they are 2-years old and conduct a regular check-up. They will make sure that your child is achieving every development milestone and will give you information regarding your child’s health, safety, nutrition, and fitness needs. They will answer questions related to your child’s development and will collaborate with you with specialists if required.
Unlike a family doctor, a pediatrician is trained to treat the mental, physical and behavioral well-being of a kid until they are 18-year-old. They will help you establish a healthy lifestyle for your child.
