Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I get a copy of my child’s immunization record or medical record? We’re happy to provide a copy of your child’s shot record or medical record. Simply complete our request form in our office or fill out a consent form on our website (located in our forms section) and fax it back to us. We will mail or fax the record as you request. There is a charge associated with copying medical records.
- When do I schedule my child’s Well Check appointment? The child must be the age of the Well Check in order for the staff to schedule the appointment. Most insurance company will only authorize one Well Check visit per year or the visit will not be covered. Sports or
- Can I call and speak with my child’s health care provider? We request that you leave a message with the front desk staff who will notify the providers of your call. Our providers are very busy treating other children but are always happy to return a call to a concerned parent. If you have questions, our provider line is available daily, but you cannot request a specific provider return your call as they rotate this duty.
- Why do I have to provide my insurance card every time I bring my child in for a visit? We are asking at each visit to provide us with your insurance card to ensure the following: your insurance has not changed, to keep our records as accurate as possible and to ensure we properly file to your insurance company for payment of the services we provided for your child. We are extending you credit and as you know for most companies, they request full credit information. We are asking only for your insurance card and photo ID.
- I’m traveling overseas with my child and need to know if I need to get vaccines before I leave? We recommend that parents review the “Travelers Health” section on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website www.cdc.gov.
- What is an appropriate walk-in medical issue? Our providers are happy to see any patients with the following issues during the walk-in period from
- What constitutes a fever? Fever indicates that the body is fighting an infection and therefore is good! Fever itself does no harm except under rare circumstances. Abnormal temperatures to watch for are: Oral temperature greater than 100 degrees, Axillary temperature greater than 99.5 degrees and Rectal temperature greater than 100.5 degrees. Please call for medical advice when the fever is greater than 104 degrees.
- At what age can I anticipate my children receiving vaccinations in the doctors office? Vaccinations begin at the two month Well Check and continues through the five year well check. Additional vaccines are needed once your child reaches their 10 year well check.
- What is a normal bowel movement? The frequency of children’s bowel movements varies widely and it can be difficult for parents to know what is normal. Some children move their bowels two or three times a day while other may go two or three days between movements. In general, a marked change in your child’s stooling pattern is more important to note than a regular infrequency of bowel movements. If you notice such a change or if your child becomes uncomfortable, talk with your pediatrician. Do not give your child laxatives, suppositories, stool softeners, or enemas unless your pediatrician recommends them. A well-balanced diet with plenty of fruit, fiber, and liquids is the best way to create soft, comfortable stools and regular bowel movements.
- Cord care question: You’ll need to keep the stump of the umbilical cord clean and dry as it shrivels and eventually falls off. There may be a few drops of blood around the stump but if it actively begins to bleed, contact our office. Though infections are uncommon, if you notice a foul-smelling, yellowish discharge from the stump, your child cries when you touch the stump or it is red near the base of the stump, please contact our office for an appointment with one of our providers.
