For those with typical children also...

Do you send your children to the same pediatrician or have a developmental pediatrican for your special needs child. After DSs diagnosis I never thought about him going elsewhere and our ped office never gave me the impression I should. Am I missing out on something for DS if I don't bring him to a developmental pediatrician?

Re: For those with typical children also...

Great question! This has been on my mind too. I was under the impression that developmental pediatricians were a one time visit kind of thing to either get a diagnosis or confirm/reject one already given. I've been pediatrician jumping with my son and I hate this feeling! My first pediatrician told me for 2 years, don't worry, don't worry! It turns out, my concerns were very valid!!! I've had a hard time trusting another doctor since then, as I'm sure you can imagine. My current pediatrician is GREAT for typical children, but I just don't get the feeling that he has the time or patience to answer all of my questions regarding my son. If anyone can suggest a regular pediatrician....one who is kind-hearted, knowledgable and always willing to listen to a parent with concerns, I would SO appreciate it! Its VERY important to me that the pediatrician doesn't just look at a child's diagnosis and make generalizations about the child based on that. Somewhere in Nassau County would be what I'm looking for.....thank you, thank you!!

Re: For those with typical children also...

DS is 4 now and he has been going to the same practice, and primarily meeting with the same ped, since he was born.

I have never thought of taking him elsewhere, but his issues also are not that extreme to me.

If that was the case, I would probably consider it.

I have never run into an issue where the doctor would not give me a referral or downplayed my concerns.

In fact, he made it clear that this is why he should be seen and tested elsewhere.

For those with typical children also...

My understanding was that for routine checkups and sicknesses you would go to a regular ped just like your typical children. A dev ped would be for diagnoses and if you are looking for medicine for those diagnoses. A dev ped can also offer advice on school placements and write letters to the committee on issues the child is having. A dev ped is not for when the child is sick.

For those with typical children also...

we use the same pediatrician that we have been using since DS was born. we kind of lucked out though.. one of the dr.s in the practice specializes in Autism. he is very big in the autism community locally.

so for well visits we see him and for sick visits we see any of the dr.s and if its something they arent comfortable/unsure with they will have him come in.

my DD uses the same practice, as does a lot of ppl here

Re: For those with typical children also...

A3CM,
Do you mind me asking who you use for your pediatrician, specifically the specialist on ASD?
Thanks

Re: For those with typical children also...

Dr. Jassey
Bellmore/Merrick Pediatrics

he is not a dev ped.

Re: For those with typical children also...

Thanks!