If your child is having symptoms of an illness, no sweeter words may be spoken than “the doctor offers same-day appointments.” Same-day appointments get children to see their pediatricians fast when they need them the most.
Patients who are able to get same-day appointments with a pediatrician may experience different emotions. First, there is a relief, because a doctor can see their child for a health concern quickly, and then there’s panic – how does one prepare for a same-day appointment? Is it any different than preparing for an appointment that is scheduled days or weeks away?
Let’s help you prepare for a same-day appointment with your child’s pediatrician.
Gather Important Documents
Gather important documents related to your child’s health, such as their medical records, immunization records, and insurance information. These documents should be in a folder or a document bag for easy access, so you can just grab them and go whenever you need to take your child to their appointments. The last thing you need is to have to gather documents while caring for a sick child and running late to the appointment – or worse, forgetting to bring such documents to the appointment.
Record Your Child’s Symptoms and Other Important Details
Write down and bring with you a list of your child’s symptoms and any important notes you may have regarding their illness or health. It’s never been easier to convert speech to a document, email, or message using a smartphone – you don’t even need to be connected to the internet to do this. Turn on voice control on your phone and use dictation mode to record what your child’s symptoms are, when they started, what you suspect caused it, and what treatments you’ve tried to use.
Record Questions
It is also helpful to write down any questions or concerns you may have, so you can remember to ask them during the visit. Again, you may use your phone’s dictation mode for this. Getting your pediatrician to answer questions is important, as they are the most valuable source of information regarding child health and development.
Prepare Your Child
Help your child prepare for the appointment by:
- Explaining what will happen during the visit in simple, age-appropriate terms.
- Let them know that the doctor may ask questions and examine them, which is just a part of the process and is totally normal.
- If coming in for a shot, reassure them that it won’t hurt much, you will be there with them, and they will be able to go home afterward.
- If necessary, allow your child to bring along a favorite toy or blanket for comfort.
Choosing a pediatrician that offers same-day appointments is highly convenient and prevents an expensive trip to the emergency room for non-life-threatening medical emergencies.
Same-Day Appointments with a Pediatrician in The Woodlands, TX
The pediatricians at Northwoods Pediatric Center, P.A. offer same-day appointments for our patients in The Woodlands for sick child visits and well-child exams. We provide for all your child’s medical needs, from infancy to early adulthood. For any questions, please call our pediatric clinic today at (281) 296-7770 or use our online request form to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians.
