Now that I'm no longer a child, do I need a new doctor?
We, at Partners in Pediatrics, have been privileged to care for you since you were an infant. You may not remember all of your visits but we were there when you got your first immunizations. We were there when toilet training was starting and when you made that transition to kindergarten. We were also there when you had a stuffy nose and when you hurt yourself with that first major tumble.
Now, suddenly, you are as tall as the support staff who is measuring you and you come to the clinic with friends in tow, instead of your mother.
Why do I still need to come to a pediatrician?
The reasons you come to see us are quite a bit different than they were when you were in grade school!
As pediatricians, we are uniquely qualified and trained to care for you through your high school and college years. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics has established age 23 as the end of the adolescent years. All our provider staff have received formal training in the medical issues of you, the adolescent patient.
We recognize that you are not a big kid, nor are you a little adult. Your issues are truly unique to you, and we look forward to continuing to help you until adulthood.
What kind of things should I see you for?
Partners in Pediatrics can offer you help with acne, behavioral issues, quitting tobacco and sports medicine. Young women can obtain comprehensive care for menstrual concerns. Every summer we perform many exams for our patients taking that next big step-going to college.
Our patients with asthma, ADHD and other chronic conditions are encouraged to discuss with their provider when it is appropriate for them to seek care from an adult medicine provider.
What if I tell you something in confidence?
Partners in Pediatrics' staff and providers recognize that teens have concerns about many things. We are committed to providing you with the privacy and confidentiality you may need at this time in your life. We comply with the formal HIPAA regulations. (HIPAA stands for Health Information Portability and Accountability Act).
In addition, we follow the State of Minnesota rules about issues that may be discussed during a teen's visit with a health care provider. Teenagers can feel free to discuss any and all issues that they are concerned about with PIP's providers and staff. If you want an explanation of our procedures at the clinic, click here. There's also a version for your parents.
Do I need to tell you when I'm a teenager?
You can but we'll know.