PEDIATRICS
CHILD/DOCTOR RELATIONSHIP
DID YOU KNOW?
A positive relationship between child and doctor is critical as regular visits are important in keeping track of the child’s overall health and wellness. This relationship also prepares the child for illness or injury visits, a time when they are likely to be uncomfortable seeing a doctor they don’t already know.
FACT EXPLAINED
If you are looking for a new doctor for your child, take a moment to consider a few things.
Specialties and Certifications: Pediatricians often have special interests or additional certifications to provide the most comprehensive health care possible. Capital Region pediatricians are certified in diverse fields including infectious diseases, SIDS, lactation, and more. Additionally, Capital Region Physicians – Pediatrics has a full-time licensed professional counselor. Counselors can be an ally through a tough diagnosis or an invaluable resource for a child’s mental health.
Recommendations: Don’t be afraid to ask friends, family, and co-workers about their child’s health care experiences.
Comfort: The right doctor will make you and your child feel comfortable. Often a parent’s comfort comes from feeling heard and having ample time with the provider.
How You Can Help: Children often experience fear before or during a doctor’s visit. Parents can help by explaining that the doctor is there to help, what the visit will likely entail, and being honest about the experience (shots hurt, but they only hurt for a little while).
Arriving prepared is also important. Be ready to share medical history, describe symptoms if they are sick, and take notes. If you don’t understand something, don’t hesitate to ask questions and get full instructions on any medications that
are prescribed.
Remember, your child deserves a doctor whose primary goal is the same as yours – improving their health, development, and well-being.