Q: Do I need to bring my insurance card to every visit?

A: Yes, your insurance card is needed to keep your account up to date and accurate.

Q: Will there be a co-pay for every visit?

A: Depending on your insurance, a co-pay may be required. You should contact your insurance company regarding co-pays. Please be prepared to pay your co-pay at the time of the visit.

Q: What if I am going to be late for my appointment?

A: We kindly ask that you contact our office if you are going to be late or cannot keep your appointment. We ask that you provide at least 24 hours notice if you are cancelling/rescheduling a well visit. If you are going to be more than 15 minutes late, please call our office to see if your appointment will need to be rescheduled out of respect for the other patients.

Q: Should I come early if I am a new patient?

A: Yes, please come 10-15 minutes early. This will facilitate a timely visit with your physician.

Q: What if I do not have my newborns insurance yet?

A: Most health insurance plans provide 30 days of newborn coverage under the mother's plan. It is the parents' responsibility to contact the insurance company to ensure continued coverage of the child. We recommend you contact your insurance company as soon as the baby is born to initiate this process. Please bring the mother's insurance card to the first visit.

Q: What should I do if my child is admitted to the hospital?

A: You should contact your insurance company within 24 hours.

Q: Will I need a referral if the doctor sends my child for tests or to see a specialist?

A: You will need to contact your insurance company regarding this information. Each insurance policy has different requirements.

Q: When can I have my baby's ears pierced and where can I have this done?

A: We prefer a child to be at least 6 months of age before having their ears pierced. TLC Pediatrics offers this service in our office. Please inquire at our front desk for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Q: When can I start feeding my baby solids?

A: Our recommendation to start cereal, fruits or vegetables is between the ages of 4 to 6 months. Starting before 4 months can increase the risk of allergies later in life. Your provider will discuss this issue with you at your child's 4 month well-check.

Q: What is the best way to take my child's temperature?

A: The most accurate temperature can be obtained using a rectal thermometer, especially in young children. Oral thermometers may be used in older children who are able to keep their mouths closed with the thermometer under the tongue and who have not had any recent hot/cold liquids. Under the arm (axillary) temperatures are not always accurate and depend on how close to the body the child's arm is kept. The newer tympanic (ear) thermometers are acceptable for older children, but are often inaccurate in younger children.