Children and adolescents are susceptible to a wide range of skin conditions, such as rashes, acne, and more – particularly because their skin is sensitive, highly permeable, and delicate. This is why their skin needs tons of tender and loving care.
A pediatric dermatologist is a doctor who provides your child up to the age of 18 with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of skin, nail, and hair issues. You and your child will have a long-term relationship with the pediatric dermatologist, so you must choose the right one.
Let’s talk about some tips you can follow when choosing the best pediatric dermatologist and where you can find the best pediatric dermatologist in South Florida.
Tip#1 Get Referrals and Recommendations
Choosing a pediatric dermatologist on your own can be hard for you. So, get help from your other doctor, such as primary care doctor, family doctor, etc. They may know and recommend you a good and child-friendly pediatric dermatologist in your area.
Your family, friends, and co-workers may also recommend you some good and trustworthy dermatologists.
Since your child’s needs may be different from their child’s needs, do not blindly follow the recommendations. Instead, list all the recommendations and referrals you receive and narrow down the list.
Tip #2 Look for the Credentials and Experience
When you narrow down the list of potential pediatric dermatologists, look for their credentials and experience. The dermatologist you choose for your child should be board-certified by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) and have a subspeciality in pediatric dermatology.
Additionally, ensure that your potential pediatric dermatologist is highly experienced in addressing the dermatological problems of kids and teens.
Tip #3 Consider the Services
You want to choose a dermatologist who treats all the skin, hair, and nail conditions your child is susceptible to. These conditions may include the following:
- Acne
- Abscesses
- Cysts
- Eczema
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Melasma
- Moles
- Nail fungus
- Psoriasis
- Rashes
- Skin tags
- Skin cancer
- Vitiligo
Choose a dermatologist who also performs procedures, such as cryosurgery, laser surgery for birthmarks, electrodesiccation, biopsy, skin excision, hemangiomas, and more.
Doing this will ensure that you won’t have to find another dermatologist for certain procedures or treatments. Also, find out if the dermatologist’s office and equipment are designed with children in mind.
Tip#4 Consider Bedside Manners of Pediatric Dermatologists
Children respond best to a dermatologist who makes them feel understood, heard, respected, cared for, and comfortable. So, choose a dermatologist who has the best bedside manners.
To find out about bedside manners, read the online patient review. You may also have one-on-one consultations with your potential dermatologists to evaluate their behavior and attitude toward your child.
Tip #5 Consider Your Insurance Plan
Find a pediatric dermatologist who comes under your plan to pay the least out of your pocket and get the most out of your insurance plan.
For this, ask your insurance provider whether your potential dermatologist comes under your insurance plan or call the dermatologist’s office and ask them if they accept your insurance.
Cosmetic Dermatology in South Florida
If you’re looking for comprehensive dermatology care for your child, visit us here at Children’s Skin Center. Our highly trained and skilled pediatric dermatologist Dr. Ana Duarte has over 20 years of experience in providing high-quality pediatric care to children and adolescents in the Southern Florida region.
To make an appointment with our dermatologists, call or text us today at (305) 669-6555.
