Question 1

What does a pediatrician do?

Accepted Answer

A pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the physical, behavioral, and mental health of children from birth through adolescence (up to age 21). They provide well-child checkups, vaccinations, sick visits, developmental screenings, and management of chronic conditions. Pediatricians complete four years of medical school plus three years of pediatric residency training.

Question 2

How much does a pediatrician visit cost without insurance?

Accepted Answer

A well-child visit costs $100 to $350 without insurance. Sick visits cost $75 to $300. Vaccinations add $20 to $100 per vaccine to the visit cost. The Affordable Care Act requires all health insurance plans to cover preventive well-child visits and recommended vaccinations at no cost to the patient. Many pediatricians offer self-pay discounts of 15 to 30 percent.

Question 3

How often should my child see a pediatrician?

Accepted Answer

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends well-child visits at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months of age, then annually from ages 3 to 21. Newborns should be seen within 3 to 5 days after discharge from the hospital. Children with chronic conditions, developmental concerns, or other health issues may need more frequent visits.

Question 4

When should I take my child to the pediatrician vs. urgent care vs. the ER?

Accepted Answer

See your pediatrician for non-emergency concerns during office hours: fevers under 104 degrees F, ear pain, coughs, rashes, and minor injuries. Go to urgent care for after-hours issues like high fevers, possible ear infections, sprains, or minor lacerations. Go to the ER for difficulty breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness, severe allergic reactions, deep cuts, or broken bones.

Question 5

What is the difference between a pediatrician and a family doctor?

Accepted Answer

Pediatricians complete three years of residency exclusively focused on children's health, including specialized training in childhood development, behavior, and diseases. Family medicine doctors complete a three-year residency covering patients of all ages. Pediatricians may have more expertise in childhood-specific conditions, while family doctors offer the convenience of treating the whole family.

Question 6

How do I choose a pediatrician?

Accepted Answer

Look for board certification from the American Board of Pediatrics, check that they are in-network with your insurance, read patient reviews, and consider the office location and hours. Schedule a meet-and-greet visit (many pediatricians offer these for free during pregnancy) to discuss their approach to topics like vaccinations, sick-visit availability, and after-hours care.

Question 7

What vaccinations does my child need?

Accepted Answer

The CDC and AAP recommend vaccinations against hepatitis B, rotavirus, DTaP, Hib, pneumococcal disease, polio, influenza, MMR, varicella, hepatitis A, meningococcal disease, and HPV. The schedule begins at birth and continues through adolescence. Your pediatrician will provide the recommended schedule and can discuss any concerns you have about vaccines.

Question 8

Can a pediatrician diagnose ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pediatricians can diagnose and treat ADHD. They use standardized rating scales completed by parents and teachers, clinical interviews, and behavioral observations. For straightforward cases, your pediatrician can manage ADHD treatment including medication. For complex cases or when there are co-occurring conditions, they may refer to a child psychiatrist, psychologist, or developmental pediatrician.

Question 9

When should my child start seeing a regular doctor instead of a pediatrician?

Accepted Answer

Pediatricians can see patients up to age 21, though many patients transition to an adult or family medicine provider between ages 18 and 21. If your child has chronic conditions, coordinate the transition with both the pediatrician and new provider to ensure continuity of care. There is no wrong time to transition as long as it is planned and not abrupt.

Question 10

Does my child need a sports physical?

Accepted Answer

Most schools and youth sports organizations require a pre-participation physical exam (sports physical) before a child can participate in organized sports. Sports physicals evaluate heart health, musculoskeletal fitness, and overall readiness for athletic activity. They typically cost $50 to $150 and can often be done during a well-child visit at no additional charge.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatricians

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Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatricians

Find Pediatricians Near You