Pediatrics
Choosing a pediatrician test 123
Your child has special needs, both medical and emotional, that are different from those of an adult. So, choosing a pediatrician is a very important decision. It may surprise you to know that pediatricians are trained to manage and prevent health problems in children from infancy through adolescence to young adulthood. Just as with adults, the intimacy and trust that results in a long-term doctor-patient relationship can be beneficial to your teenager, especially as he or she begins to deal with the questions and confusion that come with growing up. You can be confident that MedStar pediatricians are prepared to help meet the needs of your growing children with commitment, understanding and compassion.
A pediatrician's background
The three or more years of specialized residency that pediatricians complete teach them about children's health concerns, including growth and development, immunizations, illnesses and injuries, nutrition and physical fitness. Your pediatrician also can consult with you on other issues, such as:
- Behavior
- Emotional or family problems
- Learning or other school problems
- Preventing injuries
- Dealing with drug abuse
- Sex and other teen issues
Finding the right pediatrician
Don't wait till your child is ill or needs a checkup to make a choice. It's best to find a pediatrician as soon as you move to a new neighborhood or before your child is born. Your child's health is important. You should feel good about the pediatrician you choose. Here are some questions to ask about your pediatrician:
- Are all of your questions answered by the pediatrician and the office staff?
- Do you think your children respond well to the doctor?
- Does the pediatrician seem to know the latest advances in pediatric medicine?
- How helpful and friendly is the office staff?
- Does the atmosphere of the pediatrician's office meet your expectations? Is there a waiting area designed for kids?
Check-ups with the pediatrician
Regular visits to the pediatrician are key to preventive healthcare. At each visit, the pediatrician will fully examine your child. A checkup will give your child's pediatrician a chance to:
- Update immunizations and track your child's growth and development.
- Detect potential problems before they become serious.
- Help inform you on how to keep your child healthy and safe.
- Answer any of your questions.
About our doctors
As MedStar doctors, our pediatricians accept most insurance plans and HMO coverage. Our pediatricians are certified in pediatrics and specialize in newborn through adolescent care. Plus, they have admitting privileges at all nearby hospitals, and offer pediatric group coverage 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Dr. Aung formed an interest in medicine at a very early age. Both of his parents are physicians and instilled in him a natural curiosity about how the body works as well as a desire to take care of people. A native of Myanmar, Dr. Aung completed a pediatric internship at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, and a pediatric residency at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Beauchemin, a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, served as chief resident in pediatrics during her three-year training at Cook County Hospital in Chicago. She was influenced by her father, who also was a pediatrician, and because she simply enjoys communicating with children. She strongly believes in parent involvement with both the physical and mental health of their children.
To make an appointment, call the pediatricians at MedStar Good Samaritan at 443-444-5700.
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