Dr. Joan R Griffith, MD

A pediatric specialist is a physician who has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of specific conditions in children. These doctors are specialists in one particular therapy area, such as dermatology, pulmonology, surgery, or ophthalmology, in addition to being pediatricians. Pediatric specialists are who parents would take their children to when they are diagnosed with a condition requiring specialist treatment not provided by their pediatrician or primary care provider. While specialists in any area are qualified to treat children as well as adults, pediatric specialists have specific training in the way diseases affect children who are still growing and have different emotional needs than adults.

A pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in the regular care of children, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of illness in children. Young patients are often more complicated to treat because they are still growing and developing. While pediatricians may sub-specialize in specific therapy areas like oncology, surgery, ophthalmology, and anesthesiology, in general, pediatricians provide services like vaccinations, health exams, and treatment of common ailments and injuries. In addition, pediatricians are trained to handle the complex emotional and behavioral issues faced by children, especially during puberty. Pediatricians normally see their patients from birth until the age of 18, although some may agree to treat patients into their early 20s, if requested.