Pediatrics is the branch of medicine focusing on medical care for infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in pediatrics. These physicians are considered primary care providers, offering diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventative medical services for patients younger than 18.
Pediatricians, like other primary care providers, are usually the first point of contact for a patient to the greater health care system. You (and your child) will generally see a pediatrician before seeing any medical specialist.
You might see a pediatrician for:
This is not a complete list of all services provided by pediatricians.
Pediatricians have the training and clinical experience to treat hundreds of acute and chronic conditions, ranging from illnesses (like the common cold) to behavior disorders (like ADHD).
Acute conditions treated by pediatricians include:
Chronic conditions treated by pediatricians include:
Developmental disorders treated by pediatricians include:
Your pediatrician will monitor your child’s growth and development. Making sure your child is up to date on their immunization schedule is part of this responsibility. Your pediatrician will discuss your child’s immunization schedule with you and inform you of the vaccinations your child requires. In all fifty states, vaccination is necessary for a child to be eligible to go to public school.
Standard immunizations required by law include:
Follow your doctor’s orders regarding when your child is vaccinated and what vaccinations they receive. Vaccinations are crucial to protecting your child against harmful—and sometimes lethal–diseases.
Well visits–also known as well-child visits–are routine check-ups for your child.
These visits help ensure that children remain healthy and allow parents to catch any problems before they become serious. During these appointments, pediatricians will typically check the physical growth of children, discuss immunizations and other vaccinations, and answer any questions or concerns parents may have about their child’s health. They can also provide advice on nutrition and exercise for growing children and guidance on safety issues.
The American Academy of Pediatrics, the largest professional organization of pediatricians, recommends that children receive well-child visits in accordance with the following schedule:
After their second birthday (24 months old), it is recommended that a child get a well-child visit (or a routine check-up) every year. This schedule extends into adulthood.
Sesame makes finding and booking a pediatric appointment for your child more accessible than ever. You can find in-person and online pediatrician appointments in Anaheim, often with same-day availability.
Here’s how to book an appointment:
Yep, it’s easy. Sesame directly connects you with providers in your area—no insurance networks to worry about. Simply book your visit, pay upfront, and get great care.