How to Get to Know Our Pediatricians in Fairfield, CT

How to Get to Know Our Pediatricians in Fairfield, CT
May. 112021

We all want what’s best for our children, so finding the right pediatrician can be tricky. Thankfully, we’ve compiled a list of the top six questions to consider when considering if pediatrician is the right choice. At the Center for Pediatric Medicine, our pediatricians in Fairfield, CT are fully equipped to answer your questions.

Before meeting with a pediatrician in their office, you’re going to want to do some research online. To help narrow down what you value in your pediatrician, consider these three questions. Most of this information can be found on the American Board of Medical Specialties’ website, specifically their verify certification page.

1. Is the pediatrician certified by the American Board of Pediatrics?

Certification from the American Board of Pediatrics means the pediatrician has gone above state licensing requirements to fulfill specialization in pediatrics. Some pediatricians will use this certification to focus on an area such as pediatric hematology oncology.

Once they are certified, they have to maintain their certification through a Maintenance of Certification program. This certification proves the pediatrician is extremely dedicated to their field and has a deep understanding of the field of pediatrics. We know some parents want to see their pediatricians striving to expand their knowledge, which is why this question is important.

2. Is the pediatrician a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics?

The American Academy of Pediatrics claims that their members are dedicated to the health, safety, and well-being of people up to age 21. Of the 67,000 members, more than 45,000 are board-certified and Fellows of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

If a pediatrician is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, they will have a “FAAP” next to their name. Six out of ten of our pediatricians in Fairfield, CT, for example, are Fellows of the American Academy of Pediatrics. As with certification from the American Board of Pediatrics, this certification can serve as an extra level of safety. Knowing your pediatrician has multiple certifications can prove their knowledge and expertise.

3. Does the pediatrician have specialized training?

While all pediatricians are trained in administering vaccines, treating minor injuries, and even splinting broken bones, many have subspecialties. It should be made clear that some pediatricians are simply general pediatricians that provide primary care to children. However, others may specialize in areas such as: adolescent medicine, pediatric cardiology, pediatric critical care medicine, or pediatric emergency medicine.

For example, if your child has difficulties with their digestive system, you may seek out a pediatric gastroenterology specialist. If you do not seek one out yourself, you may be referred to someone with this specialty later.

Once you’ve narrowed down the type of pediatrician you’re looking for, it’s time to make an appointment. When it comes to finally meeting with your pediatrician, consider asking these two questions to get to know them.

1. How long have you been in practice?

As with many of the other questions on this list, many parents want to see examples of experience. An easy way to tell if your pediatrician is experienced is to get to know about their history as a pediatrician. This would be a good time to ask if they have any subspecialties, too.

2. What is your childcare philosophy?

You will want to feel comfortable talking openly with your pediatrician. They should instill confidence in you that they will be able to help your child in any situation. Sitting down with a pediatrician can reveal whether you find them to be a good listener and non-judgmental.

Some parents seek a pediatrician that feels more like a consultant that offers a wide variety of options to health concerns. Others seek a more prescriptive pediatrician who offers a more straight-forward response to your child’s needs.

In the end, most pediatricians that are right for your family will not be right for another. Therefore, proceed with caution when your neighbor refers you to their beloved pediatrician.

Our ten pediatricians in Fairfield, CT at the Center for Pediatric Medicine are fully equipped to answer all of your questions. If you want to learn more about us, you can check out a list of our providers online. We look forward to discussing our specialties, qualifications, and philosophies with you to help your child receive the professional care they deserve!

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After Hours

Center for Pediatric Medicine is here for your pediatric needs 24.7, 365 days a year! We understand that your child may get sick outside of CPM’s normal office hours.

How does after-hours work:

  • Monday – Thursday: our offices will close at 9:00 pm. We then re-open at 8:30 am Friday.
  • Friday- our offices will close at 6:00 pm. We then re-open at 8:30 am Saturday.
  • Saturday- our office will close at 2:00 pm. We then re-open at 8:30 am Sunday.
  • Sunday- our office will close at 1:00 pm. We then re-open at 8:30 am Monday.

During the hours we are closed we are readily available to assist you with any urgent clinical concerns you may have.

You can call any of our office locations or 203-790-0822. You will be promoted with an after-hours message. If you select option 1 you will be connected with CPM’S after-hours answering service team. The after-hours team will gather all of your child’s information (Patient's first and last name, best contact number, and health care concern). This message will be sent to “Rainbow Babies” an experienced triage service that CPM uses to assist us with clinical after-hours calls. A trained triage nurse will call the patient back and provide the recommended clinical advice. If the triage nurse needs more assistance they will reach out to one of CPM’s on-call providers for the night. CPM’s on-call provider will call the patient directly and continue to evaluate your child over the phone. All phone call encounters are followed up with a call the next day from CPM’s triage department.

If it is a life-threatening emergency please call 911.

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