These individuals work under the supervision of the pediatrician and are often an important part of a pediatric clinic. Pediatric specialists have more extensive training in and experience with children's health issues than any other doctor. However, over half of all children in many areas of the nation receive their routine care from someone other than a pediatrician. Family practitioners and nurse practitioners are quite capable of caring for the common health care needs of children. Your decision to use a pediatrician is a personal one.
Families choose pediatricians for several reasons.
Children with unusual or complex problems often require the expertise of a pediatrician. If your child has a chronic medical problem, you may be better off with a pediatrician because she will have more experience with these problems than a family practitioner. However, many family practitioners manage children's chronic illnesses very well. Even in the absence of a serious problem, some families just feel more comfortable with a specialist for their child. Finding a Good Pediatrician Insider recommendations from someone working in health care remain the fastest and best way to find a good pediatrician.