Let's face it: raising a child is not easy. Being a mum or a dad carries a lot of responsibilities and requires a great deal of attention to all the details, regarding your little ones. And sometimes it can just become overwhelming, which is why you need a reliable and confident person by your side to help you take care of your toddler`s health. Since you will be spending a lot of time with that doctor, it is also important you and your child are comfortable with him/her.
A good doctor will not just be the person who will treat your child when ill. No, a good doctor will educate you, show you ways and give you tips on monitoring your child`s health. Also explain you your child`s growth and development patterns, so you know what to expect and spot irregularities yourself.
Doctor can also provide valuable information with regards to exercises, nutrition and emotional problems your child might experience.
How To Find A Good Doctor?
We live in an era of technology, so when people want information, answers to their problems and concerns most of them turns to the Internet, being the “ultimate source of information”. When choosing your GP, however, I would advise a more personal approach.
Sure you can and will find Web sites of major authorities that are presenting you with the best doctors in your area but you can, just as easily, ask your friends, relatives or colleagues for their recommendations.
I`m not being paranoid or anything but the bottom line is this, who would you rather place your trust in – a loyal friend you have known for years or lines of text on a Web site you see for the first time in your life?
One more thing you need to look for in your child`s doctor is his education. Now, this may sound strange but you need to pay attention to it. If your kid has some special needs you will need a GP with a diploma in child health (look for a doctor with “DCH” after his name – it stands for diploma in child health).
Is He The Right Doctor For Us?
Say your friend recommended you a doctor with superb education, knowledge and a bunch of diplomas hanging on his wall. How will you know if he is the right one? Well you need to investigate.
Relax, we are not going to hire a private investigator or ask Poaro and his little gray cells for help. Just ask your friend to tell you a bit more about that doctor. Is he good with kids, does he enjoy working with them? Also, is his staff friendly and patient, making your visits more enjoyable and waiting time shorter.
But, most importantly, you need a good listener. You want a doctor who will always have time to discuss problems and listen to your concerns, no matter how silly they are.
My final advice
Before I go I want to tell you one last thing – don`t be afraid to ask for help. I see a lot of people being afraid, ashamed or simply don’t want to admit they can`t handle problems affecting their kids.
Remember that there are lots of resources at your disposal and healthcare professionals so ask for help whenever you need it!
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