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Doctor's office etiquette

10 tips to keep your child -- and you -- well behaved in the waiting room

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Originally published in Today's Parent October 2010

Languishing in the waiting room at the doctor’s office can be tedious at best. Add an antsy – and possibly ill – child (or a few) to the mix and it may become a bit more challenging for everyone to stay patient, composed and courteous. “Parents need to remember that we’re providing a service,” says Dr. Gary Smith, a community paediatrician at Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Orillia, Ont., and a spokesperson for the Canadian Paediatric Society. “We need their help to be able to make it the best service possible.” To ensure your visit – and the office – runs smoothly, read on for 10 simple rules to abide by at the paediatrician’s office.

1. Be specific when you make the appointment When scheduling your appointment, let the receptionist know what the visit is for and how long you will need. “Our days are very structured and we usually only allot 10 to 15 minutes per routine visit,” says Smith. “If you have more than one concern and need time to discuss, let the receptionist know so they can book accordingly, otherwise the doctor gets behind and no one is happy.” If you have multiple children who need to be seen, book multiple appointments instead of piggy-backing, and be sure to consider time of day – it may not be wise to schedule a visit when your child should be napping, Smith says.

2. Phone or email ahead An email or phone call to get the doctor’s opinion about whether or not you need to come in can sometimes save you the trip. “If it’s a common cold, do other parents and kids a favour and stay home,” Smith says. “You’d be surprised at how many doctors are willing to discuss over the phone.” If your doctor hasn’t told you about his policy about phone calls and emails, ask the receptionist. Paediatricians may offer this service for a price.

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