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Addressing Concerns
Having hesitations and concerns about vaccines for your child is natural. I understand that navigating the abundance of worrisome information found when doing "research" on the internet can be scary and confusing for a parent. I know you absolutely want what's best for your child, and that's why I developed this section: to provide you with accurate information to address these worries. My priority is to ensure you have the confidence to make informed decisions about your child's health.
-Dr. Sally
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Do you make home visits?Yes, I do, for newborns and infants, and on a case-by-case basis. Initial newborn visits (at 3-5 days, 2 weeks, and 1 month old) will be done in the comfort of your own home should you choose, at no additional cost. I appreciate that it can be logistically difficult for parents to get to the doctor’s office with that sweet little newborn or with a sick older child.
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What is your position on vaccines?Immunizations have saved more lives than any other medical advance in history – they protect us from preventable and potentially severe or fatal diseases. I suggest administering them based on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended schedule, which we will review together before beginning. I also understand the abundance of worrisome information found when doing "research" on the internet and how scary this can be for a parent. I know you absolutely want what's best for your child, and we can certainly spend time on this topic and any concerns you may have.
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What if my child needs specialty care?My comprehensive pediatric training allows me to handle the majority of your child’s healthcare needs. If you need or want your child to see a specialist, I will help you find the right doctor. When making referrals, I can consult with your child’s specialist prior to your appointment, as needed. After your child’s visit to a specialist, I will follow up to discuss any of your questions or concerns, and arrange additional testing and management if needed.
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What happens if my child must go to the emergency room or be admitted to the hospital?This can be a stressful and often confusing experience for patients and their families. Your child will be cared for by the emergency room physician and/or hospitalist team. I will communicate with them, review your child’s plan of care, answer questions, and make recommendations as needed. As your child’s health care advocate, I will communicate directly with you, and help you navigate the health care system.
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What if my child needs urgent care?If it is a life-threatening emergency, you should call 911 or take your child to the ER immediately. Otherwise, you can contact me when needed. Often, I can diagnose and treat your child’s needs quickly and without a visit to the ER or urgent care. In fact, membership medicine has been shown to result in many fewer ER and urgent care visits. If appropriate, rest assured I can see your child the same or next day!
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What if my child needs medical attention while we are away from home?You can speak with me wherever you are, and I will help with any medical conditions that can be handled by a “virtual visit.” If you have a condition that requires in-person evaluation and treatment, I will direct you to appropriate nearby care, and coordinate follow-up when you return home. Our college program is a reassuring service that allows students to easily contact me by cell, text, email, or video. Your student will have their own trusted doctor who knows them well and can coordinate their care while away from home. I can handle the majority of medical needs to help your student avoid a visit to the clinic altogether or communicate directly with local healthcare providers if needed.
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What if Dr. Sally is on vacation?As a member of Dr. Sally Pediatrics, you and your child are never alone. Even when out of town, I will still be available by phone for urgent needs. You will be notified by email before any vacations. If I am not available, I will have another trusted physician available to assist you and your child for any urgent matters.
Vaccine Information Statement
VIS Forms
VIS or Vaccine Information Statement is a document, produced by CDC, that informs vaccine recipients – or their parents or legal representatives – about the benefits and risks of a vaccine they are receiving.
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