As a parent or caregiver, keeping your child healthy is a top priority. Regular visits to a family physician are a cornerstone of pediatric care, serving as a vital opportunity to track growth, administer immunizations, and address any health concerns. At Family Medical Home, we understand that a well-prepared visit can make a significant difference in the quality of care your child receives.

To help you and your child have a positive and productive experience, our team has compiled a guide on how to prepare for your next appointment.

Before the Appointment

Proper advance preparation can streamline the check-in process and make sure that your family doctor has all the necessary information.

• Confirm Your Appointment: A day or two before the visit, call our office to confirm the time and location. This is also a good time to ask about any specific instructions.
• Prepare Your Questions: In the days leading up to the visit, jot down any questions or concerns you have about your child’s health, development, or behavior. Topics might include eating habits, sleep patterns, social milestones, or learning. Having a written list ensures you don’t forget anything important during the appointment.
• Gather Medical Information: Prepare a list of any medications, vitamins, or supplements your child is currently taking, including dosages. If your child has seen other specialists since your last visit, bring any relevant notes or reports.
• Complete Paperwork in Advance: If you are a new patient at Family Medical Home, you can save time by completing our New Patient Forms before you arrive. You can find the New Patient Form for Children 14 & Under on our website.

Talking to Your Child

A visit to the pediatrician can be intimidating for a child, especially if they don’t know exactly what to expect. Explaining what to expect in a calm and positive way can help reduce their anxiety.

• Be Honest & Keep it Simple: Explain the reason for the visit using age-appropriate language. For a routine check-up, you might say, "We're going to see Dr. Hogue to make sure you're growing healthy and strong."
• Read a Book or Role-Play: Reading a book about visiting the doctor or using a toy doctor kit to role-play a check-up can help demystify the experience.
• Don’t Use Negative Language: Avoid using the visit as a threat or focusing on potentially painful aspects like shots. Frame the appointment as a normal and positive part of staying healthy.

What to Bring to the Visit

Having the right items on hand can make a smoother and more comfortable appointment for both you and your child.

• Insurance Card & ID: Always bring your current insurance card and a form of identification.
• Your List of Questions: Don’t forget the list of concerns you prepared.
• Comfort Items: For younger children, a favorite toy, book, or blanket can provide comfort and distraction in the waiting room and during the examination.
• Snacks & Water: A simple, non-messy snack and a drink can be helpful if there is a wait or if your child becomes fussy.

During the Appointment

Your active participation during the visit is key to a successful partnership with your family physician.

• Be an Active Participant: Share your observations and concerns openly with the doctor. You know your child best, and your insights are invaluable to the diagnostic process.
• Take Notes: It can be helpful to write down the doctor’s advice, instructions for medications, or goals for your child’s development.
• Ask for Clarification: If you don't understand something, please ask. Our team is here to make sure that you have a clear understanding of your child's health and any recommended treatments.

Schedule Your Child's Next Visit with Us

At Family Medical Home, Dr. Robert L. Hogue and our dedicated staff provide compassionate and comprehensive pediatrician services for families in Brownwood, TX and the surrounding areas. We focus on preventative medicine and overall well-being for patients from newborns to seniors.

If you are looking for a trusted family doctor to care for your child, contact Family Medical Home today to schedule an appointment.