Pediatrics

Traditionally, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) considered the upper age limit of pediatric care to be age 21. However, in 2017, the AAP recommended against setting age limits on pediatric care in favor of letting families make a mutual decision that best suits each patient.

Why is Pediatric Medicine Different?

Ask any pediatrician, and they will tell you that young people are not just small adults. Children have unique developmental patterns, and their brains work differently from those of adults. To fully meet children where they are and coach them appropriately, it is important to work with a medical provider who has a deep understanding and familiarity with the childhood growth process.

Pediatric medicine is also very personal. Because pediatricians follow a child’s health status for nearly two decades, they have an intimate knowledge of each child’s unique personality and how that personality can influence their particular health outcomes. Pediatricians typically see thousands of patients each year, so they have a finely-honed developmental stage concept and provide specific guidance. They also can help parents think ahead and anticipate upcoming health events and challenges.

Types of Pediatric Providers

Several health specialists, including: can provide pediatric medical care

• A medical physician who has the title of MD or DO
• A physician assistant who has the title of PA or PA-C
• A nurse practitioner, who has the title of NP, PNP, or APRN

Regardless of whom your child is scheduled to see, rest assured that each medical provider is part of a collaborative healthcare community. Each pediatric provider is well-equipped to diagnose, manage, and treat pediatric problems – or refer to someone else with more specialization, as needed. Additionally, our providers who work with pediatric patients are passionate about youngsters. Each has a fantastic way of engaging with children.

Difference between Pediatrician and a Family Doctor

Although family medicine providers are fully qualified to provide medical care for children, the experience of visiting a family medicine clinic tends to be very different from that of a pediatrician’s office. At Lompoc Valley Medical Center, our pediatric offices are decorated with bright colors and cheerful wall hangings. This helps children learn to regard a clinic trip as a fun and exciting experience rather than provoking fear or anxiety.

Alongside our pediatric medical providers, the nurses and other allied health professionals in our pediatric offices are experts at working with children. Many are equipped with special tricks to help make clinic visits more manageable. You can expect clever maneuvers to distract from uncomfortable procedures and an overall playful spirit.