Should your child visit their pediatrician during COVID-19? 

More than ever before, it is crucial for parents to remain connected with their child’s pediatrician. While the COVID-19 pandemic is worrisome and many parents fear for the safety and health of their children, children mustn’t miss their pediatrician visits because illnesses, injuries and behavior issues are ongoing and cannot go untreated.

Our office cares about the health of all of our patients ranging from newborns to teens. We have remained diligent in staying connected with families, while continuing to take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of you and your children.

In-office visits 

While parents continue to follow social distancing protocols by keeping their children at home, these are some of the many reasons why you may need to bring your child into the office:

• Hearing and vision screenings
• Immunizations
• Newborn visits
• To monitor developmental milestones
• Lab checks
• Injuries and/or infections
• Health concerns

Video Appointments via Health Chat 

Another alternative option we have provided for parents to receive answers is through video appointments. Via Health Chat, our medical staff can communicate with parents and decide the following steps to take with the child’s medical history and health as the primary focus. While video chat appointments are beneficial, children should still be seeing their pediatrician regularly.

What if your child gets sick? 

Even though a hospital visit is usually not needed for a simple cold, if your child is having flu-like symptoms and you are concerned, call your pediatrician immediately as they will advise you on the necessary following steps. If your child may have been exposed to COVID-19, it is necessary to be transparent with all medical professionals so that they can receive the care they need.

Medical Emergencies 

If your child has a medical emergency, call 911. Otherwise, you can always check in with your child’s pediatrician by picking up the phone and giving us a call. If immediate medical care is not needed, we will work with parents to coordinate alternative options, avoiding an unnecessary hospital visit.

We want to remind parents that it is not necessary to avoid calling our office in fear of putting your child at risk for COVID-19. Our medical professionals are still seeing patients and following all steps to keep patients and their families safe. Whether your child is sick, hurt, or emotionally struggling, we are working hard to accommodate everyone during this challenging time.