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.
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- 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?
- How will transitions between different stages of treatment be managed?
- What is the plan for long-term management if my child requires ongoing care?
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