HOW TO KEEP YOUR CHILD’S HEALTH?
• Is the clinic easily accessible? Is it within walking distance, or are there good public transport connections? Is there adequate parking available within the clinic property or nearby?
Are they courteous and warm? Are the waiting facilities adequate? Do they cater for children, with a bright atmosphere, toys and children’s books, and carpet so that toddlers and young children can play on the floor? Is there space to park a pram or pusher?
• Has the doctor had particular training in paediatrics? Some doctors have had special training in paediatrics after they have graduated, but many have not. Some will have had several months of working with children, others a year, and some will have had a number of years. Do not be afraid to ask the doctor how much training and experience he has had with children. While it is not essential to find a doctor for your child who has been specifically trained in children’s health, naturally those who have will generally have a better understanding of children and their illnesses than those who have not.
• Is the doctor friendly? Do you and your child feel welcome? Look for a doctor who is easy to communicate with, who always pays attention to your concerns and doesn’t appear to rush you. Just as important, make sure that the doctor treats your child with respect and sensitivity and takes the time and trouble to talk or play with him, to explain things to him if he is old enough, and is generally aware of the special needs of children, especially if they are unwell or feeling anxious.
• Are the office hours convenient? Does the doctor offer an after hours service? If not, what arrangements are made for emergencies at nights and weekends? Does the doctor do house calls? Is there a locum working out of the practice who will have access to your child’s records? Or does the doctor rely on a locum service?
• How easy is it to make an appointment to see the doctor? What about emergencies? Is he generally on time, or does seeing the doctor usually involve a long wait? What are the busiest and quietest times of day?
• What are the charges for a consultation? Does the practice ‘bulk bill’, charge the ‘recommended’ fees, or are the fees higher? How much are the out of pocket expenses following a consultation?
You may wish to write down some of the other things that you think are important in choosing a doctor for your child, or use this space to write down any comments that will help you choose.
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