How to Find the Right Provider for Your Child’s Diagnosis: Make an Informed Decision
A father and a mother hug their daughter, a patient at Shriners Children’s.
This is part four of a four-part series about finding the right specialty doctor for your child’s diagnosis, with guidance from members of the Shriners Children’s healthcare system. Read part one. Read part two. Read part three.
Ask the Right Questions
When evaluating a pediatric provider, asking the right questions is essential to ensure that you understand their approach to care and feel confident in their ability to meet your child’s needs, Connie Wilson, RN, MSN, CNOR, CSPDT, director of patient care services and nurse executive at Shriners Children’s Lexington, said. Here are her key questions to consider regarding various topics.
Provider Experience and Expertise
- What is your experience with my child’s specific condition or treatment?
- How many cases like my child’s have you handled?
- Do you have any special training or certifications related to this condition?
Treatment Approach and Plan
- What is the proposed treatment plan, and why do you recommend it?
- What are the potential benefits and risks of this treatment?
- Are there alternative treatments or options available?
- What is the expected outcome of the treatment, and how will we measure its success?
Care Team and Coordination
- Who will be involved in my child’s care team, and what are their roles?
- How will you coordinate with my child’s primary care physician and other specialists?
- Will there be need for collaboration with other healthcare providers or facilities?
Communication and Support
- How can I contact you if I have questions or concerns between appointments?
- How will you keep me informed about my child’s progress and any changes in the treatment plan?
- What kind of support services are available for families, such as social work or counseling?
Logistics and Practical Considerations
- What will be the frequency of visits or follow-ups required?
- Are there any specific preparations needed for upcoming appointments or procedures?
- What are the office hours, and how do I schedule or reschedule appointments?
Facility and Environment
- Can you describe the facilities and any specialized equipment or technology that will be used?
- Are there accommodations for families during long visits or hospital stays?
- What are the safety and infection control measures in place at the facility?
Emergency and Follow-Up Care
- What should I do in case of an emergency related to my child’s condition or treatment?
- How is follow-up care managed, and who will be responsible for it?
- What is the process for addressing any complications or side effects?
Provider Philosophy and Approach
- What is your approach to patient care and decision-making?
- How do you involve families in the treatment process and decision-making?
- How do you handle situations where there are differing opinions about treatment?
Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction
- Can you provide information on the success rates for treatments like my child’s condition?
- How do you handle patient and family feedback or complaints?
- Are there any testimonials or references from other families that I can review?
Continuity of Care
- How will transitions between different stages of treatment be managed?
- What is the plan for long-term management if my child requires ongoing care?
It may seem like a lot, but doing your due diligence is worth it. “By asking these questions, you can gain a clearer understanding of the provider’s qualifications, approach to care and how well they align with your child’s needs and your family’s preferences,” Wilson said. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, bring this article, and use it as a checklist to guide you through the process.
Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, this is a decision that’s going to deeply impact you and your family, so keep that in mind. “Trust your own judgment and comfort level with the provider and facility,” Wilson said. “Your intuition about what feels right for your child and family is important.”
Reflect on your family’s particular needs, too. “Consider how the providers align with your child’s specific medical needs, your family’s preferences and logistical considerations,” she said, adding that you should feel confident in your choice of provider.
And don’t forget to ask for one essential opinion: your child’s. “Listening to your child’s thoughts, opinions and feedback about a pediatric healthcare provider is important for several reasons,” Wilson said.
Trust your own judgment and comfort level with the provider and facility. Your intuition about what feels right for your child and family is important.
Kids are more likely to be cooperative and honest about their treatment if they feel comfortable, and their feedback can provide valuable insights into how well the provider is communicating with them, she said. A child’s emotional response to their treatment environment can significantly impact their overall experience, and involving your child in discussions about their care helps them feel more in control and respected. “This can be empowering and contribute to a more positive outlook on their treatment,” she said.
At the end of the day, choosing a specialty provider to diagnose your child should be a team effort, Wilson said. “It’s important to balance your child’s feedback with professional medical advice. While their input is valuable, the final decision should also consider the provider’s expertise and recommendations. Open communication between you, your child, and the healthcare provider is key to ensuring the best outcomes for your child’s care.”
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