What is pediatrics?
Pediatrics is a branch of medicine that involves the health and medical care of infants, children and adolescents from birth up to about age 18. Pediatricians are doctors who have completed a 3-year residency program following their graduation from medical school, during which they receive additional training in diagnosing and treating childhood illnesses, ranging from routine healthcare and minor problems to serious diseases. Pediatricians manage the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of children under their care at every stage of development.
Pediatrics incorporates a wide range of treatments, from routine checkups, wellness visits and vaccines to specialty care (for injury, infection, diseases and dysfunctions) and surgical procedures when needed. Pediatric care includes both immediate management and treatment plans, as well as long-term management to deal with the effects on your child’s quality of life. In fact, pediatricians are often involved with the prevention, early detection and management of problems such as:
- Developmental delays and disorders
- Behavioral problems
- Social stresses
- Functional disabilities
- Mental disorders (including depression and anxiety)
- Genetic and congenital conditions
- Cancers
- Organ disease and dysfunctions
What will your child’s pediatrician do?
Your child’s pediatrician will meet with them many times between birth and age two, and once a year following that for annual checkups. They will also meet with you and your child if your child is sick or if other care is needed. You can expect your pediatrician to:
- Provide physical exams
- Provide vaccinations
- Check to make sure your child is meeting developmental milestones in growth and behavior
- Diagnose and treat illness, infection, injuries and other health problems
- Provide you with information about your child’s safety, nutrition, fitness and health needs
- Answer any questions you may have about your child’s growth and development
- Blue and Yellow Forms for School
- Labratory work
Your child’s pediatrician may work closely with other medical specialists and healthcare professionals to ensure that your child receives the best care possible, and may refer you to a specialist as needed.
We invite you to call our office today to make an appointment for your child with our pediatrician, Dr. Pierre Blemur, and learn more about pediatrics in Opa Locka, Miami, Miami Gardens and Coconut Grove, Florida, and the surrounding areas of Miami-Dade County, Florida. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality of personal care for your child.
