When To See a Pediatrician

Dr. Elizabeth Yakubu and Dr. Alrick Drummond, pediatricians at the Children’s Health Center in Tampa, and Riverview, FL, offer a relaxing and comfortable environment for specialized childcare.

What is a Pediatrician?

A pediatrician is a medical doctor specializing in the physical, mental, and behavioral treatment and care of children from birth to 21 years of age. 

Pediatricians can diagnose and treat developmental and emotional disorders, infections and injuries, genetic abnormalities or conditions, and provide resources for proper nutrition. Dr. Yakubu and Dr. Drummond can help children prevent certain health problems and adopt a healthy lifestyle. 

When to See a Pediatrician

Routine pediatrician visits for children can vary by age, but children should be seen by a pediatrician from newborn to 21 years of age at least once annually. Newborns are seen on a more frequent basis during the first few years of life. 

An annual preventative pediatric health exam with Dr. Yakubu or Dr. Drummond at the Children’s Health Center in Tampa, and Riverview, FL includes a routine physical examination, health screenings, checking developmental milestones, and proper vaccinations. Parents are encouraged to ask questions about steps they can take at home to ensure their children are maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  

Any developmental concerns or chronic diseases in children and adolescents can require more frequent pediatrician visits outside of their annual preventative care exam. 

How Your Pediatrician Can Help You

Dr. Yakubu and Dr. Drummond are passionate about providing children with the best preventative and routine care possible but also work diligently to treat specialized conditions.

• Medical Conditions - If a child was born with a medical condition, Dr. Yakubu and Dr. Drummond will work with parents and necessary specialists and/or medical professionals to provide the proper care they need. 
• Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Evaluations - A diagnosis of ADHD in children is based on age, symptoms, and developmental level. ADHD behaviors can include impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention; must be present in multiple settings, and affect daily life. Children’s Health Center in Tampa, and Riverview, FL offers ADHD evaluations and treatment.
• Sports and School Physicals - Most schools require a sports physical exam before a child participates in any school-sanctioned sports. While this exam is not much different from an annual physical, some additional tests will be performed: 
  • Blood pressure reading
  • Height and weight check 
  • Vision test
  • Joint, muscle, and posture check 
  • Ear, nose, and throat check
  • Heart and lung condition evaluation 

Some additional tests may also be required by school or state regulations.

For high-quality and compassionate pediatric care in Tampa, and Riverview, FL, call Children Health Center at (813) 914-7772 (Tampa) or (813) 677-2222 (Riverview) to schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Yakubu or Dr. Alrick Drummond.