Frequently Asked Questions
Select a Question from
General Questions
Question:
Can I schedule a visit before my child is born?
Answer:
We offer pre-natal visits with our nurse practitioner on a weekly basis. Call the office to schedule a visit
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Question:
Can my 16-year old come in to be seen by him or herself?
Answer:
We will see patients who are over 16 and can drive themselves. The administration of any immunizations does require a parents presence or permission over the phone. However we like to have the parents attend the check ups as often as possible to discuss any concerns.
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Question:
Do I need to have my child checked for illness before I travel?
Answer:
Generally, no. You may wish to consult with your practitioner if your child has a chronic medical condition such as asthma, or if you are travelling overseas to a country where sanitation is a problem. Certain immunizations may be indicated.
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Question:
Do you take walk-ins?
Answer:
Yes, however we prefer that you call to make an appointment. If you come without an appointment, we will try to work you into the schedule. Depending on our schedule, this might involve some waiting. If your child is ill, it's best to first call to speak with the nurse.
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Question:
How long must I wait for an appointment for a sick child?
Answer:
We see sick children the same day that you call. We are open evenings and weekends.
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Question:
Is there a doctor available 24 hours?
Answer:
Yes. If you call after hours with a medical problem, you’ll have a chance to speak with a doctor or a registered nurse who can give you appropriate advice that has been approved by your doctor. If your child's condition is serious or the problem isn’t clear, the nurse will page the doctor to call you.
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Question:
What age children does your practice see?
Answer:
We see children from birth until they graduate from college.
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Question:
What happens if I arrive late for my appointment?
Answer:
If you arrive 30 minutes late or more for a well-child visit, you may need to reschedule your appointment. We will do our best to work you in if possible. If you are late for a sick-child appointment, we will still see your child, but you may need to wait for those that have appointments and have arrived on time. Please call if you are running late so that we can try to fit you into the schedule faster.
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Question:
What is a nurse practitioner? How does the nurse work with the physician?
Answer:
Nurse practitioners are registered nurses who have completed advanced training in well care and routine childhood illnesses. Although nurse practitioners are able to handle most of your child's needs, they consult with a physician whenever they encounter a problem that goes beyond their training. Many of our patients, and their parents, form a strong bond with a particular nurse practitioner, whom they tend to see frequently throughout the child’s growing years.
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Question:
When you are open on weekends or holidays, what services are available?
Answer:
We will schedule a limited number of checkups on Saturday , but devote most of that time to sick children. Sunday hours are devoted to only sick children.
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Question:
When you have extended evening hours, what services are available?
Answer:
Check ups and sick visits are available in the evening.
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Category: General Questions
Question:
Will my child always see our personal physician? Can my child be seen by any of your doctors?
Answer:
Generally we like the patients to choose a primary doctor to form a relationship with. One of the advantages of a group practice, such as ours, is that doctors can cover for one another. Even if your doctor is out of town or fully-scheduled, another member of our medical staff can take care of your child's needs.
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Question:
Will the doctor call in an antibiotic for my child without being seen?
Answer:
No, your doctor needs to examine your child and determine what treatment is appropriate, as well as documenting it in your child’s record. If you are out of town we would suggest that you find a local pediatric office. Most offices are happy to see children who are from out of town. You would need your insurance card, or you would need to pay cash for the visit.
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Question:
What if I have an appointment. for my child, but also have questions about a different child in my family?
Answer:
Please call ahead or let the front desk know. The doctor will need to have the medical charts for each child in advance. If the issue is complicated you may need to schedule a separate appointment.
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