Pediatricians can help diagnose medical conditions in children. Depending on the condition, parents or caregivers may take their children to a primary care pediatrician or a pediatric specialist.Children undergo rapid physical and mental changes as they grow. Pediatricians understand this fact and assess a child’s health status based on the normal ranges for their age.
- Child abuse pediatricians possess specialized training, experience, and skills necessary for evaluating if a child may have experienced abuse or neglect.
- Pediatric oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating different types of cancer in children.
- Pediatric cardiologists diagnose and treat various heart conditions in children. Many pediatric cardiologists work closely with pediatric heart surgeons when deciding the best treatment strategies.
Pediatricians perform a diverse range of health-related services that range from health and wellness screenings to management of complex medical conditions.
Parents and caregivers can take their child to a pediatrician for periodic well-child visits. Well-child visits are an opportunity for parents and caregivers to ask any questions they may have regarding the health of their child. Pediatricians may also give vaccinations at these visits, if appropriate.
The American Academy of Pediatrics define adolescents as individuals aged 11–21 years. Pediatricians can continue seeing young people throughout adolescence. Parents or their children may feel more comfortable transitioning to a pediatrician who specializes in treating teenagers.