When your child is ill, you want expedient, compassionate medical care. However, you know that you may not be able to get an appointment with your pediatrician that day.
Rather than resorting to going to the nearest emergency room for a relatively minor issue, consider these tips when getting a pediatrician appointment quickly for your child – and we will also offer a recommendation for an excellent pediatric practice with convenient clinics in The Woodlands and Spring.
Tip #1: Select a Practice with Multiple Pediatricians and Locations
Be sure to have your child seen by a caring pediatric practice which features convenient locations, morning phone-in times, and a generously sized professional staff. That means more than one pediatrician will be available, there are many support personnel (such as registered nurses), and the office team is friendly and accommodating to welcome your child and make them feel at home.
Tip #2: Be Specific About the Child’s Symptoms
Tell the staff member who answers your call about the specific reason why your child needs to see a pediatrician. Be ready to list the child’s symptoms (fever, stomachache, vomiting, etc.), when the symptoms started, how intense they are, and what (if any) treatments you have used.
Tip #3: Most Pediatric Clinics Keep a Few Appointment Slots Open for Sick Visits
Pediatricians often see children who have a sudden illness or injury, so call the pediatrician’s office as soon as possible (preferably in the morning) to expedite receiving an appointment for your child. Be ready to be flexible with your own schedule, too.
Also, take full advantage of telehealth capabilities and other ways of communicating with the pediatrician. Depending on your child’s health issue, a virtual appointment may suffice.
Tip #4: Be Willing to See Another Provider in the Practice
While continuity of care is important – that is, seeing the same pediatrician each time – you may have to see another pediatrician in the practice for a same-day sick visit. Keep in mind that your child’s medical records are readily available to that doctor, and the physician can confer with other members of the medical team who know your family well if necessary.
Pediatric Care in The Woodlands and Spring, TX
At Northwoods Pediatric Center, our team is headed by four board-certified pediatricians. We place a high priority in delivering accurate, timely, and compassionate care to our young patients and their families. When you need us, we’re here for you!
We provide wellness checkups, vaccinations, and school sports physicals for athletes. We serve children of all ages through age 17 in the Greater Houston area.
If you have any questions or would like to request an appointment with one of our outstanding pediatricians, contact our friendly staff today by calling Northwoods Pediatric Center at (281) 296-7770, or fill out our easy-to-use appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you keep your child happy and healthy!
