Who are Pediatricians?

Medical doctors who are specialized in diagnosing and treating diseases and dysfunctions in infants, children, and adolescents are called Pediatricians. The speciality of medical science that deals with the physical, social, and mental health of children from birth to young adulthood is called Pediatrics. It includes a variety of health services, from the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic diseases to preventive health care.

What are the qualifications of a Pediatrician?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be a Pediatrician:

• DNB - Pediatrics
• MD - Pediatrics
• DM - Paediatric Critical Care
• Postdoctoral Fellowship Training Program in Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Diploma in Child Health (DCH)
• CCT - Paediatrics (Neonatal Medicine)
• CCT - Paediatrics
• MS - Paediatrics Surgery
• Fellow of the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health (UK)
• FCPS (Paediatrics)
• Ph.D. - Paediatric
• Diploma in Paediatrics

What are the subspecialties in Pediatrics?

Some of the subspecialties of Pediatrics are:

• Neonatology
• Pediatric cardiology
• Pediatric oncology
• Pediatric surgery
• Pediatric emergency medicine
• Pediatric infectious diseases
• Pediatric pulmonology
• Child abuse pediatrics
• Developmental and behavioral pediatrics

What are the common conditions treated by Pediatricians?

Some of the common conditions that Pediatricians treat are:

• Fetal origins of disease
• Neonatal encephalopathy
• Smoking in youth
• Origins of heart disease
• Cancer in children
• Type 1 Diabetes
• Nutrition and related disease
• Environmental chemical exposure
• Autism disorders
• Common infections

Do Pediatricians perform surgery?

No, Pediatricians do not perform surgery. They are typically consulted in their offices or clinics and perform diagnostic examinations as well as lab tests, x-rays, or other tests to evaluate health issues. Pediatric surgeons are professionals who operate on children. They work by collaborating and consulting with Pediatricians and physicians before and post-surgery.

How do I consult a Pediatrician?

You can consult a Pediatrician either online or offline. However, depending on the availability of the doctor and the convenience of the patient, pre-booking may be required for consultation.

How often does a child need to visit a Pediatrician?

It is recommended to consult a Pediatrician once every year to get an update on the health of the child. In case the child has an existing disease or condition, it is advised to have regular follow-ups with the Pediatrician.