Pediatricians specialize in primary care services of children ranging from newborns to young adults. They offer diagnostic, treatment, preventive, and education services that address the needs of children, including adolescents.
Here’s why you should have your child see an adolescent doctor, also called a pediatrician, on a regular basis.
1. Adolescents Differ From Babies, Children, and Adults
From the middle school to high school years, young people change emotionally, mentally, and physically at a dramatically rapid pace. They deal with challenges of physical growth and puberty, social and academic pressures, such as bullying and school program choices, and learning to take charge of their own healthcare needs.
Accordingly, a pediatrician who focuses on the health and welfare of the 15 to 21 age group understands what adolescents need to thrive and stay healthy long into adulthood.
2. They Diagnose and Treat Diseases, Injuries, and Conditions Particular to Adolescents
Pediatricians are experts in adolescent care and can treat issues specific to this age group, such as:
- Bone and joint problems, such as scoliosis in the spine
- Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and more
- Drug, tobacco, and alcohol use problems and how to treat them
- Sexuality awareness and responsibility
- Respiratory care for colds, flu, asthma, allergies, pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, and more
- Avoidance of risky behaviors, such as reckless driving and multiple sex partners
- Management of chronic health problems, such as asthma, acne (and other skin issues), and diabetes
- Learning problems, such as dyslexia and ADHD
- Sleep disorders, such as insomnia and sleep apnea
- Sports injuries, including fractures, sprains, and strains
- Eating disorders, such as anorexia and binge eating
- Obesity
- Vision and hearing problems
3. Adolescent Medicine Doctors Deliver Routine and Preventive Care
See an adolescent physician for your youngster’s annual wellness exam, sports or school physical, updated immunizations, tracking of growth and development, and more. Gynecology and boys’ health check-ups begin at this time, too, and the doctor may also order baseline bloodwork and urinalysis.
4. An Adolescent Doctor Provides a Safe Space
At BridgeSpan Medicine, our team knows teens and young adults may not want to speak to their parents about sensitive issues, so they need a safe space to do so with their doctor that is welcoming to them. Our facility has an entrance, waiting room, and treatment spaces that are separate from those for younger patients, such as babies and children.
Plus, we provide respect, active listening, and compassion to young patients, so they feel safe about asking questions and raising sensitive issues such as cyber safety, sexual behaviors, interpersonal relationships, school, future vocations, and more.
The Best Adolescent Doctors in Purchase, New York
At BridgeSpan Medicine, we know adolescence presents unique concerns and challenges. That’s why we devote so much time and energy to understanding what teens need to live their best lives. Our physicians are board-certified, highly experienced, and interested in helping teens achieve optimal health, growth, and function.
To learn more about our services, call us for an in-person visit at (914) 698-5544, or request an appointment online. We welcome any and all questions from you and your teen.
