Tag Archives: finding a pediatrician

What An Adoption Doctor Did for Us, Part Two

My last blog talked about how an adoption medicine specialist helped us to decipher referral information and consulted with specialists. Once the referral was accepted, the doctor provided instructions on how to page her from abroad and a list of “what to bring” for each country. In Korea, medical care is good and most children are in foster care. Also, we visited our daughter during our stay but did not take custody until the last day. Therefore we brought only over-the-counter medicines and did not need to page the doctor. People more likely to page the doctor are those who … Continue reading →

What Is An Adoption Doctor and Why Would I Need One?

What in the world, you may ask, is an “adoption doctor”? Adoption is not a disease, after all! (In fact, I still remember how disturbed I was the first time I went to the library for information on adoption. Instead of being in the parenting section, “Adoption” books were shelved between “Addiction” and “AIDS”. ) Nevertheless, a new subspecialty has developed in adoption medicine. The American Academy of Pediatrics has a new committee for it. Why? Especially with the advent of international adoption, many doctors were unfamiliar with the terminology used by doctors overseas and were unable to advise parents … Continue reading →

Choosing a Pediatrician or Specialist for Your Child

I’ll never forget the doctor’s visit where I sat across from my son’s pediatrician, describing his congenital cataract. I was very concerned about what it might mean. I had done a lot of research, and knew the possibilities. As I ran one scenario past the doctor, she gave me a blank look. She had absolutely no idea what I was talking about. “Have you heard of that condition?” I asked. Somewhat reluctantly, she admitted she never had. As I mentioned more concerns, she nervously turned her back and got out a notepad. “What were those terms again?” she asked. It … Continue reading →