However, they don't simply look after babies and toddlers. Teenagers up to the age of 18 and sometimes above are treated by pediatricians. Physical tests and vaccines are performed by them, as well as development monitoring and sickness diagnosis and treatment.

Throughout your child's first year, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that you take him or her to the pediatrician at least seven times for checkups. Because a child's immune system has not yet matured due to their lack of exposure to the many viruses and bacteria that cause infections and disease, they are vulnerable. Never feel obligated to take your child to the pediatrician on a regular basis; there is no such thing.

Your physician will have a long-term relationship with you and your child, so choose one who has extensive medical experience, is kind, and has sound judgment. Let's discuss how to discover the best pediatrician for your child. How do you choose the best pediatrician in your region? When there are so many options? Here are a couple of things to think about.

Is the location of the office convenient?

Check each pediatrician's office location once you've made a list of many pediatricians to consider. It will be more time-saving and handy to choose a pediatrician whose office is close to your home, job, or childcare, and you will be more likely to keep your appointments.

Obtain referrals from your OB/GYN and family physician

Your OB/GYN (obstetrician/gynecologist) is the first person you should ask for a reference from. During your pregnancy, your OB/GYN is someone you can trust and with whom you develop a professional, but still somewhat personal, relationship. Your OB/GYN will be able to refer you to one or two good pediatricians. Also, don't be afraid to seek advice from your family doctor or primary care physician.

Will the doctor conduct the initial checkup at the hospital?

Ask each pediatrician if they will perform your baby's initial checkup at the hospital when you speak with them. Some pediatricians will come to see your baby soon after birth, but only if they are linked with the hospital where you are being treated.

Check the qualifications and experience of each pediatrician

Examine each doctor's qualifications and experience on their websites as you trim down your list. Board certification is a plus that shows a doctor's professionalism, patient care, medical knowledge, and communication skills have all been properly confirmed.

How did your first meeting go?

The initial office visit assists you in determining whether or not a pediatrician is the best fit for your child. It's critical to find a doctor with whom you feel at ease, as this promotes open conversation. Keep close eye on how your pediatrician interacts with your baby or toddler. Do they seem really concerned about your child? Is the doctor concerned with your baby's issues if he or she has them? This isn't the correct doctor for you if you don't feel at ease following the visit.

What to expect from your child's pediatrician

From birth until the age of 18, your pediatrician can look after your child's health. Your child will have frequent wellness visits during this time to assess their physical and mental development. The structure of your child's appointments will change as they grow older, but they'll receive their first checkup within 5 days of birth.

Your doctor may schedule a one-month appointment after the initial checkup. After that, they'll see your kid every two months until they're six months old. You'll see your pediatrician every three months until your infant is 18 months old, then every six months until he or she is 30 months old after that. Following that, your pediatrician will schedule annual wellness checks with you.

6 ways to increase Communication with Pediatrician 

It's critical to form a positive relationship with your pediatrician, especially if you see him or her frequently. It will benefit your child's well-being and health if you communicate effectively with his or her physician. Follow the guidelines below to keep in touch with your pediatrician regularly.

Maintain a focused conversation

Make a note of your questions and concerns before going to see the pediatrician. If there are any issues that need to be addressed, utilize this list to ask your questions as soon as the doctor walks into the room. You may be requested to return with a separate appointment to address all of your questions if they cannot be answered in one visit.

Remain realistic

If a medication or drug is not necessary, your doctor will not prescribe it. Often, the pediatrician will ask you to keep an eye on your child for a few days to see how his or her symptoms worsen. This is frequently the best option for your child's health, and you should trust your pediatrician's recommendations.

Tell the pediatrician the truth

Let your pediatrician know if you have any questions or concerns about your visit to their office. You should notify the doctor if you feel rushed or if you have been rudely greeted. If you have any questions about the prescriptions that have been prescribed, you should always ask for clarification.

Make use of convenient alternatives

You are not required to take your child to the doctor at the first symptom of illness. Inquire with your pediatrician about a nurse line where you can chat with a trained professional about any health concerns you may have. If the condition appears to need medical treatment, the nurse can allay your fears or make an appointment for you.

Always provide useful information

The more information your pediatrician has about your child, the better he or she will be able to assist the child in staying healthy. If your child's life has changed significantly, let your doctor know. If your child has experienced a death in the family, divorce, or any other substantial disruption in their usual life pattern, the doctor should be informed.

Be sure to follow your pediatrician's advice

Before you leave the office, double-check that you understand all of your pediatrician's instructions. All lab test findings should be understood, as well as how to give medication and whether or not a follow-up session is required. Also, if the drug isn't functioning or causing any side effects, make an appointment with your doctor.

Pediatricians are incredibly busy, and their sector is growing as more parents are concerned about their children's health. A growing number of youngsters attend daycare centers or early education programs, where they are exposed to illness and disease. Many pediatrician offices have seen an increase in business as a result of this.

Do you want to know more about Pediatric Drug Development? Join us at the Pediatric Drug Development Online Masterclass on 5th to 7th September, 2022.

Also check our In-house Training in Pharma and get better ideas in Pharmaceutical Industry.

By Fazmi Zakam, Junior SEO Executive, GLC Europe, Colombo Office, Sri Lanka.