According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a wide range of pediatric specialists are available to treat specific childhood diseases and traumas. Specialists who treat children range from pediatric heart specialists and neonatologists to allergy, orthopaedic, critical care and dental pediatric specialists. Most children utilize the services of a generalist who may require consultation and the expertise of a doctor trained to treat specific conditions.
Step 1
Follow the advice of the pediatrician with whom you've already built a relationship. Many times, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the family pediatrician will remain in close contact with the specialist, share records and provide follow-up care. Use the referral from your pediatrician unless you have misgivings about her recommendations.
Step 2
Ask friends and family for referrals. Seek out the assistance of parents whose children experienced similar conditions to find out which specialists they used. Find parents in doctors' waiting rooms, through your personal and work-related networks and at support groups.
Step 3
Talk to your dentist or pharmacist to find a referral. Contact the local American Medical Association office for a list of specialists in your area. Additionally, your insurance company may recommend various doctors who participate fully in your health plan coverage.
Step 4
Arrange for an interview with a couple of specialists before making your final decision. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you should feel comfortable with the doctor who will be treating your child. When you need a specialist, you may be in a particularly vulnerable emotional state and need to feel free to be open and honest with your doctor, trusting that you will be treated with respect and be kept informed of your child's progress.
Step 5
Consider how often you'll see the doctor and the convenience of his office. It could make a big difference if the location of the office is far from your home, according to the National Institutes of Health. Other considerations you should look at when finding a pediatric specialist include office hours and the hospitals at which he has privileges.
Tips and Warnings
- While you're in the waiting room, take note of the specialist's staff. Consider how they treat patients and whether they are friendly and accommodating or not. You may have to spend considerable time with the staff as well as the doctor, and you should be comfortable with everyone there.
- Doctors often are rushed and quick to move through their daily appointments. Since you are seeing a specialist for your child, you probably have more questions and concerns than usual. Prepare for doctor's appointments with a written list of questions to make sure you don't get shuffled out before you get all the answers you need.
Things You'll Need
- Referral
- List of questions
