Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pediatrician?
A Pediatrician is a physician who has a special interest and acquired knowledge of the health needs of infants, children and adolescents. Extensive training in these areas takes place after completion of formal medical education. They are specialists in diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of childhood.
How do I choose a physician?
Not all doctors are alike. A child’s health care needs differ from those of an adult, both medically and emotionally. Below are some helpful hints in selecting a doctor:
- Don’t wait until your child is sick or needs a check up — you don’t want your decision to be rushed unnecessarily. Remember, you are choosing the doctor who helps prevent and manage your child’s health problems from infancy to young adulthood.
- Talk to other people about who they know and would recommend. Those you might consider asking could be friends, neighbors, co-workers and if you’re moving, your current physician.
- Ask these people questions such as:
- Does the doctor seem to like your child and talk with them?
- Do their children like the doctor/clinic?
- Do you feel as though your questions are answered?
- Do you find it easy to get an appointment when you need one?
- Check the provider directory for your health plan to determine whether the clinic/doctor you want to go to is a participating provider. You can also call the clinic to check this as well.
- Consider visiting the clinic you would like to establish a relationship with.
Is there a doctor available 24 hours a day?
Yes, our telephones are answered 24 hours a day. After regular business hours, our phones are answered by the Children’s Triage Service. A clinic physician is always on-call and available for consultation if needed.
How do I get my lab results?
Many lab results will be available on our patient portal. Depending on the type of test ordered, the results may take 5-7 days.
How do I get my prescription refilled?
You should begin by calling your pharmacy. The pharmacy will contact our office for the necessary authorization. You should allow 72 hours for prescription refill requests.
What do I need to bring for my first visit?
There are several items that we suggest people bring to their first visit. These include the following:
- previous medical records (especially immunization records)
- list of medications
- insurance card
- any co-pay amounts due
Do I have to pay my co-pay at the time of service?
Yes, co-pays are due at the time of service. In fact, we are obligated by our contractual relationship with the insurers to collect co-pays. To learn more about health insurance and billing, click here.
You are my “primary clinic.” Do I need to get a referral to go see a specialist?
As your primary care clinic we are responsible for delivering and coordinating all of your health care needs. Each insurance policy is unique with referral requirements. After a physician at Central Pediatrics has referred you to a specialist, please check with your health plan to see if a referral is necessary.
How do I get copies of my child’s medical records?
Copies of medical records are available from our Medical Records Department. We take every precaution to protect the rights and privacy of our patients. To ensure the privacy of patients and their families and to comply with federal regulations, parents or guardians must sign an Authorization for Release Medical Records form. If the patient is 18 years or older, they must sign the form themselves. Processing of the request can take up to five working days.
Is there a reputable online resource for pediatric health information?
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the website healthychildren.org. Another useful site is KidsHealth through Children’s Health Network. Both websites offer reasonable guidance and is developed for parents and caregivers.
Who should I contact if I have a concern or positive experience to share?
Feedback from our patients is highly valued. We welcome you to contact us anytime by phone or through our contact page.