Why Medical Parenting?

No one is ever quite ready; everyone is always caught off guard. Parenthood chooses you. And you open your eyes, look at what you’ve got, say “Oh, my gosh,” and recognize that of all the balls there ever were, this is the one you should not drop. It is not a question of choice.”

                       Marisa de los Santos,

Author of Love Walked In

There is no greater responsibility that we as parents have than to nurture, care and keep our children healthy. Unfortunately children do not come with an instruction manual and it is up to us to usher them safely to adulthood.

As the mother of two grown children I have traveled the path which lies before you. I understand the depth of the love you feel for your child and your determination to move heaven and earth to give them every opportunity to lead a happy and healthy life. My thirty years experience as a physician caring for families as they navigate the health care system make me uniquely qualified to give you tools which you can use to optimize the care your child receives.

I hope this book gives you a roadmap to help navigate the increasing complex work of health care and childcare.

Chapters

• 1: Introduction

• 2: Choosing a Pediatrician

• 3: Primary Care Physician

• 4: Interacting with Ancillary Care Staff

• 5: Emergencies

• 6: Referral to a Specialist

• 7: Surgery

• 8: Chronic Illness

• 9: Your Child’s Dental Care

• 10: Nutrition

• 11: Adolescent

• 12: Letting Go

• 13: Taking Care of Yourself

• 14: Conclusion