This post was first published on wfmchealth.org.

When it comes to your child’s health care, choosing the right doctor is essential. Many people opt for a family physician that sees people of all ages, while others strictly prefer a pediatrician for their little one.

Both pediatricians and family doctors are medical experts, but a pediatrician is able to offer a deeper level of knowledge and expertise when it comes to your child’s health care.

What Is the Difference Between a Family Doctor and a Pediatrician?

Pediatricians are specialists who understand the vast developmental needs and milestones of children. Children present different symptoms from adults, and they often aren’t capable of expressing their body’s feelings well. A pediatrician knows what signs and symptoms to look for in a child thanks to specialized training.

Pediatricians are certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and must undergo training every seven years to ensure their knowledge is up to date.

Family physicians are a type of primary care doctor who have done work in pediatrics as well as internal medicine and geriatrics. Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine, a family doctor can treat people of all ages and genders. Similarly to pediatrics, family doctors must also undergo routine training and education to provide the best quality health care to their patients.

Benefits of Choosing a Pediatrician

Pediatricians offer a more specialized form of care to children. It’s not uncommon for a pediatrician to see a patient throughout their entire childhood and adolescence..

Pediatricians are also a good choice for children with special needs, birth defects or who were born prematurely. As a specialist, pediatricians are skilled in the various nuances of childhood conditions and can provide a more tailored level of care.

How to Choose the Right Pediatrician

Schedule a meeting with us and learn more about our practice. When you interview a pediatrician, you should take time to ask about their education and credentials, and learn about their skills and expertise.

More so, you should gauge how their office makes you feel. The right doctor for your child will ensure that you always feel welcomed, comforted and cared for in their clinic.

Do you have more questions about finding a pediatrician in Salem, Oregon? Talk to staff at WFMC Health or become a new patient today!