Bring the kids to their doctor even if they're not sick

[Photo courtesy of Dreamstime. (C) Angela Farley]

The latter part of the year, especially during the -ber months, is when children get sick more often. More children catch colds, cough, and flu as the temperature changes from hot and humid in the summer to cold and wet starting July onward. To keep our kids healthy, we need to make sure that their immunity is strong. 

Doctors often say that an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. Preventive measures (i.e. getting proper amount of sleep, eating a balanced diet, engaging in physical activities, taking of supplements, etc.) are cheaper and easier to apply. There is really no need for us to risk our children having complications later on, which can easily cost a fortune and endanger their lives,  by being complacent about their health.

Bringing our kids to their pediatrician, even if they are not sick, is important in safeguarding their health. A complete physical exam, including eye and ear check up, can help your doctor identify if your child has any abnormalities or if he/she is at risk of developing any health problems. The pediatrician will also keep you informed on what immunizations your child needs.

If you don't have a family pediatrician yet, here are some tips that you might want to consider when choosing a doctor:

• Ask a family or trusted friend for referrals.
• Make sure that the doctor is board-certified. It will help if you can find out his/her affiliations and training background.
• Choose a doctor that has a clinic in a hospital. This will make it easier for you and your child in case he/she need to be admitted or have laboratory tests and procedures done.
• Find out if the doctor can be reached during holidays and after clinic hours for advice and other medical matters. Clarify if there will be extra charges for these kinds of service. Also, ask if the doctor can refer you to another physician nearby if an emergency happens and he/she is not in town
• Make sure to find out the doctor's professional fee. Don't forget to ask if the doctor is covered by your healthcare plan, PhilHealth, or insurance.