While house calls and prescriptions that are called in without the need for an immediate medical visit are virtually gone in the United States today, one aspect of medical care from previous generations that is still popular today is the option for each member of the family to see the same doctor. A family practice doctor has received extensive training so that he or she is well-versed in common issues for people of all ages and both genders, while the pediatrician focuses just on children. If you would like everyone in your household to see the same doctor and are unsure as to whether that choice is appropriate for young children, the following information will be very useful.
Advantages Of Seeing A Family Practice Doctor
Since a family practice doctor can see patients of any age, you won't need to worry about needing to find a new doctor as your child ages. For example, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that young women have their first gynecological examination between the ages of 13 and 15. While a pediatrician might not provide that service, it is not unusual for a family practice doctor to do so. In addition, since your daughter will already be familiar with their family doctor at that time, it might not be as stressful for her to get through.
It is also important to note that even though a pediatrician can see patients until they are 18-21 years of age, many teenagers are not comfortable seeing the same doctor when they are old enough to drive that they saw as a newborn. Family practice doctors are not as likely to have that problem since they see patients of any age. Even the decor in a pediatrician's office can be off-putting to older kids and teenagers, while the more neutral colors in a family practice office are less childish.
Benefits Of Seeing A Pediatrician
A pediatrician is uniquely qualified to see to the needs of children and their bedside manner will usually reflect those skills. If your little one has any health or developmental issues, the comfort and appeal of a pediatrician's office could be quite useful. In addition, the waiting area and patient rooms in many pediatric offices are very kid-friendly, which can make it easier when it becomes necessary to wait before being seen.
Another consideration is not an absolute in every pediatric office, but is a popular feature when it occurs. Specifically, the option of two waiting areas can be quite useful. One waiting room is for healthy kids, who are being seen for check-ups, immunizations, and other issues that are not contagious. The other room, with its own toys, books, seats, etc. is reserved for kids who are sick and may be contagious. Offices that offer dual waiting rooms are popular, since their presence keeps your child from being inundated with germs.
In conclusion, there are many benefits associated with choosing one family practice physician to see everyone in your home. especially when everyone in your contracts food poisoning or the flu. In order to make the most appropriate choice for medical care for your young children, it is a good idea to be aware of the information provided above.
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