What is a Pediatrician?
Many people ask themselves, “what is a pediatrician? Isn’t a physician the same thing?” The short answer is no. A pediatrician is a medical professional who specializes in the care of children from birth to adolescence. Pediatricians are trained to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of illnesses and conditions that are unique to children, from common illnesses such as the flu and ear infections to chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and cancer.
Pediatricians play a vital role in the health and well-being of children, providing care that is focused on the physical, emotional, and developmental needs of each child. They work with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that children receive the best possible care and support, helping them to grow and thrive throughout their childhood and into adulthood.
What Education and Training do Pediatricians Need?
To become a pediatrician, a person must complete a rigorous educational and training program that typically takes at least 11 years to complete. This includes:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Completion of medical school, which takes four years
- Completion of a three-year residency program in pediatrics, which provides training in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood illnesses and conditions
- After completing their training, pediatricians must pass a certification exam from the American Board of Pediatrics to become board-certified in their field.
What types of Specializations exist within Pediatrics?
Pediatricians can choose to specialize in specific areas of pediatrics, such as:
- Neonatology: the care of premature or critically ill newborns
- Adolescent medicine: the care of teenagers and young adults
- Developmental-behavioral pediatrics: the evaluation and management of children with developmental and behavioral problems
- Pediatric cardiology: the evaluation and management of heart problems in children
What Roles and Responsibilities do Pediatricians Have?
Pediatricians play a crucial role in promoting the health and well-being of children. They are responsible for:
- Conducting regular check-ups and monitoring a child’s growth and development
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses, injuries, and medical conditions
- Providing guidance and support to parents on issues such as nutrition, safety, and child development
- Administering vaccines and immunizations to prevent the spread of infectious diseases
- Referring children to specialists for further evaluation and treatment when necessary
Pediatricians also play an important role in advocating for the health and well-being of children in their communities. They may work to promote public health initiatives, such as vaccination campaigns and injury prevention programs, and may also work with schools and community organizations to improve the health and well-being of children.
When Should a Parent Consider Visiting the Pediatrician?
There are many reasons why you may want to visit a pediatrician with your child. Here are some common reasons:
- Regular check-ups: It is recommended that children have regular check-ups with their pediatrician to monitor their growth, development, and overall health.
- Vaccinations: Pediatricians provide vaccinations to protect children from various diseases.
- Illness or injury: If your child is sick or injured, you should visit a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
- Developmental concerns: If you have concerns about your child’s development, such as delayed speech or motor skills, a pediatrician can provide guidance and refer you to specialists if necessary.
- Behavioral issues: If your child is experiencing behavioral issues, such as difficulty with sleeping or eating, a pediatrician can provide guidance and refer you to specialists if necessary.
- Chronic conditions: If your child has a chronic condition such as asthma, allergies, or diabetes, a pediatrician can provide ongoing care and management.
It’s always a good idea to consult with your child’s pediatrician if you have any concerns about their health, growth, or development. Your pediatrician can provide guidance on how to keep your child healthy and answer any questions you may have.
Tanner Clinic offers multiple medical specialty services, including Pediatrics. Equipped with multiple departments and specialists, Tanner Clinic exceeds all patient expectations. With over five clinic locations, it’s easy to find a doctor who understands your needs. Call us today for more information and to schedule an appointment.
