Pediatricians are doctors that specialize in care for children from birth to age 18. These doctors have extensive training in childhood development and health. Taking your child to a pediatrician regularly can help keep your child well because the doctor will be able to spot potential problems with growth or an underlying medical condition.

Benefits

There are many benefits of pediatric care. One of the primary benefits is preventative medicine. Regular checkups give you an idea of how healthy your child is. If your doctor has concerns she can address them right away and chart your child's progress. Checkups are done every few months when your child is an infant, and once your child is over two years old routine checkups are done once per year.

Significance

Pediatricians provide a vital service of caring for your child's health. Seeing a pediatrician can keep your child healthy because she will monitor your child's progress, especially cognitive development.

Types

There are a few different types of pediatricians. Most pediatricians are medical doctors. Some specialize in certain illnesses or disorders like down syndrome. There are also holistic pediatricians who offer natural alternatives like homeopathic medicine. Homeopathic medicine involves herbs and other old fashioned remedies.

Function

Pediatricians perform may functions from circumcision to vaccinations. However, their primary function is to check the overall health of the child. They will check for ear infections, abdominal pain or other signs of childhood illness.

Considerations

There are a few things you may want to consider before selecting a pediatrician. Ask your friends and family for recommendations and visit the doctor for a consultation so you can see how she cares for your child. You will know if you found a good fit on the first or second visit.

Source:

Ask Dr. Sears

Importance of Pedatrics