Planning for the arrival of a baby is one of the most exciting times in a family's life. However, it can also be overwhelming due to the number of decisions that need to be made. In addition to choosing the baby's name, setting up the home, and purchasing all the necessary items, one very important decision arises: choosing the best doctor for your child before his birth.
It is essential to make this choice even before the baby is born, as a good medical professional will be in charge of monitoring his or her health from the very beginning. Below, we provide detailed information on the different types of doctors who can care for a newborn and help you make an informed decision.
What are your options for doctors for your child?
When it comes to the child's health, you can choose between three types of health professionals: pediatricians, family doctors o nurses specialized in pediatricsEach of these professionals has experience in child care, but there are differences in their training and approach that you should be aware of.
Pediatricians
Un pediatrician A pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in the physical, emotional, and social health of children from birth through adolescence. Most pediatricians also perform preventive tasks, such as administering vaccines and conducting regular check-ups on the child's health.
A pediatrician's training includes four years of medical school, followed by three years of residency in a pediatric setting. They must then take a board exam. American Board of Pediatrics to obtain their license. This certification title guarantees that the pediatrician is up to date on the Latest treatments and medical advances related to children's health.
In addition, many pediatricians decide to continue their studies in subspecialties such as pediatric cardiology, emergency pediatrics o pediatric urologyThese subspecialties allow pediatricians to offer even more specialized care for complex cases.
When to go to the pediatrician?
Pediatricians play a crucial role in child development, not just when children are sick. routine visitsWell-baby visits, also known as well-child visits, are essential to ensure proper growth and avoid potential future problems.
In addition, the pediatrician is the one who should be consulted for any symptoms, such as prolonged fever, digestion problems, persistent cough or behavioral problems. His specific knowledge in childhood illnesses ensure that you receive prompt and appropriate responses.
Family clinician
The family doctors are another great option for your child's health care. Unlike pediatricians, they receive training in multiple areas during their residency, including pediatrics, internal Medicine y gynecologyThis versatility allows them to care for patients of all ages, meaning they can remain your child's doctor well into adulthood.
The fact that a family doctor Treating all members of the household can be very beneficial as it gives you a comprehensive vision on family health and emotional relationships that can influence a child's well-being.
When choosing a family doctor, it is important to ask about their age policy, as some may not accept patients under a certain age.
Advantages of family doctors
- They offer a general approach to family health.
- They can treat the entire family, giving them intimate knowledge of family medical history.
- They provide long-term follow-up covering all stages of life.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (PNP)
The nurses specialized in pediatrics (PNPs) are an increasingly popular choice for pediatric health care. These professionals have earned their master's degree in nursing, with training focused on pediatric care. PNPs are trained to perform clinical examinations, provide diagnoses, and offer treatment for simple cases.
Like pediatricians, PNPs typically focus on a subspecialty within the child's Health, such as pediatric cardiology or neurology. Their focus is on educating parents and offering preventative alternatives to improve children's health.
A key advantage One of the key aspects of choosing a PNP is the amount of time and attention they typically provide. Because they typically do not see the same volume of patients as pediatricians, PNPs can spend more time with parents and answer questions in detail. However, if complex clinical issues arise, they are trained to refer the child to a physician.
Should I be concerned about choosing a PNP instead of a pediatrician?
Many parents feel unsure about having their children treated by a pediatric nurse. However, it is important to note that pediatric nurses are highly trained and often provide exceptional care. personalized and comprehensive.
If you prefer that the PNP consult with a pediatrician in complex cases, most offices are willing to accommodate this request.
Key aspects when choosing a pediatrician
Choose a appropriate pediatrician It is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your child's long-term health. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Specialization: Make sure your pediatrician is board certified and, if necessary, has subspecialties that can benefit your child's health.
- Proximity: The proximity of the office is important in case of emergencies.
- Empathy: It is essential that both the pediatrician and his medical team show understanding, warmth and patience.
- Availability: Ask about after-hours and emergency policies.
- Virtual consultations: Some pediatricians offer online consultations when an in-office visit is not possible.
Important Pediatric Subspecialties
There are several subspecialties within pediatrics that cover different branches of child health. Depending on your child's specific needs, you may need to see a specialist in one of these areas:
- Pediatric Cardiology: For children with congenital heart problems or heart defects.
- Pediatric Dermatology: Specialist in the care of children's skin, which is usually more sensitive than that of adults.
- Pediatric Endocrinology: Treats hormone-related problems such as precocious puberty or childhood diabetes.
- Pediatric Ophthalmology: Pediatric vision specialist who can identify problems such as squint or refractive errors in the first years of life.
The importance of choosing in time
It is advisable to begin the search for a pediatrician or doctor for your child before birth, ideally during the third trimester of pregnancy. This way, you will have time to interview several professionals and make sure that they have resolved all your doubts before the baby arrivalHaving a trusted doctor from day one will provide peace of mind and ensure that your child receives proper care from the start.
Choosing a doctor for your child is a crucial decision that will influence their well-being throughout their childhood. Make sure you select the most appropriate professional for your needs, considering not only the doctor's training and experience, but also their empathy, length of attention, and willingness to answer your questions.