If you have a child you know that it is important to be aware of the different options for medical care if the need arises. Here are three types of doctors for children and some of their duties.
- Pediatrician
The pediatrician is usually the main doctor providing care to a child from birth up until adolescence or adulthood. Pediatricians give routine checkups to children, diagnose illnesses and prescribe any needed medication. These doctors should have a good, trusting relationship with both the children they are treating as well as their parents. It is recommended that most children get a routine checkup every year, but this may vary depending on the child and the recommendation of the physician.
- Psychiatrist
While pediatricians are equipped to provide some mental health care, sometimes care is needed that goes outside the scope of what they are able to provide. Child Psychiatry Northbrook IL is a field that provides diagnoses and treatment of mood, emotional and behavioral disorders in children. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication just as a pediatrician would and may also guide the child and guardians through ways to manage the diagnoses. It might be suggested that the child see a mental health counselor along with the treatment prescribed by the psychiatrist.
- Allergist
An allergist can help diagnose childhood allergies and suggest ways to treat or manage the allergy. Some ways to test for allergies include:
- Skin prick test, where a small amount of an allergen is placed on the skin and allowed to be absorbed in the skin
- Intradermal test, where a small amount of an allergen is injected into the skin
- Blood test, where blood is drawn and then tested for various allergies
An allergist will help determine which test is right for your child.
These three types of doctors can provide needed care for a child.
