Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A pediatrician is a medical doctor who specializes in the health and well-being of children from birth through adolescence. They provide preventive care, diagnose and treat illnesses, and guide parents on their child’s physical, emotional, and developmental health.

Colonia Pediatrics offers a wide range of services, including:

• Routine check-ups and wellness exams
• Vaccinations and immunizations
• Same-day appointments for urgent care
• Sports and school physicals
• Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses
• Developmental screenings
• Nutritional and growth guidance
• Behavioral health consultations
• Newborn care and guidance for new parents

• Newborns and infants: Regular visits are recommended every few weeks to months during the first year of life.
• Toddlers and preschoolers: Visits are typically scheduled annually or as needed.
• School-age children and teens: Annual check-ups are recommended, along with additional visits for vaccinations, sports physicals, or any health concerns.

During a routine check-up, your pediatrician will:

• Measure your child’s height, weight, and head circumference (for infants)
• Check vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure
• Perform a physical exam
• Discuss developmental milestones
• Administer any necessary vaccinations
• Address any concerns you have about your child’s health, nutrition, or behavior

Vaccinations are essential for protecting your child from serious illnesses. Common vaccines include:

• Hepatitis B: It’s a vaccine that protects against the Hepatitis B virus, which can lead to liver disease and cancer.
• Hepatitis A: It’s a vaccine that protects against the Hepatitis A virus, which causes liver inflammation and can be spread through contaminated food or water.
• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis): It’s a combination vaccine that protects against three bacterial diseases: diphtheria, tetanus (lockjaw), and pertussis (whooping cough).
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): It’s a vaccine that protects against three contagious viral infections: measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles).
• Polio: It’s a vaccine that prevents poliomyelitis, a viral infection that can cause paralysis.
• PCV13 (Pneumococcal): It’s a vaccine that protects against 13 strains of pneumococcal bacteria, which can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections.
• Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b): It’s a vaccine that prevents infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b, including meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis.
• RotaTeq (Rotavirus): It’s an oral vaccine that protects against rotavirus, a leading cause of severe diarrhea in infants and young children.
• Varicella (Chickenpox): It’s a vaccine that protects against chickenpox, a highly contagious viral infection causing itchy blisters and rashes.
• Menactra (Meningitis A): It’s a vaccine that protects against meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis, particularly serogroup A.
• Bexsero (Meningitis B): It’s a vaccine that protects against meningococcal disease caused by the B strain of Neisseria meningitidis.
• Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis – booster for older children): It’s a booster shot for older children and adults to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.
• HPV (Human Papillomavirus – recommended for preteens and teens): It’s a vaccine that prevents infection with human papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical cancer and other cancers.

Your pediatrician will provide a personalized vaccination schedule based on your child’s age, medical history, and health needs.

At Colonia Pediatrics, we care for patients from birth through 22 years of age.

For individuals over 22 or those in need of adult care, our Pediatric Clinic in Perth Amboy offers services for adult patients as well. Dr. N. Patel, who is experienced in both pediatric and adult medicine, is available to continue providing quality care into adulthood.

If your child is sick, you can:

• Call Colonia Pediatrics to schedule a same-day appointment.
• Monitor symptoms and provide home care as recommended by your pediatrician.
• Seek immediate medical attention if your child has a high fever, difficulty breathing, or other severe symptoms.

Your pediatrician will monitor your child’s developmental milestones during routine visits. These include physical, cognitive, emotional, and social milestones. If you have concerns about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your pediatrician.

For your child’s first visit, please bring:

• Your child’s medical records and vaccination history
• Insurance information
• A list of any medications your child is taking
• Any questions or concerns you’d like to discuss

Yes! Colonia Pediatrics provides specialized care for newborns, including:

• Newborn wellness exams
• Guidance on feeding, sleep, and development
• Support for new parents adjusting to life with a baby

A fever is often a sign that your child’s body is fighting an infection. Here’s what you can do:

• Monitor their temperature and symptoms.
• Keep them hydrated.
• Use fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (as directed by your pediatrician).
• Call Colonia Pediatrics if the fever persists for more than 48 hours, is very high, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Common signs of allergies in children include:

• Sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Skin rashes or hives
• Digestive issues Your pediatrician can help diagnose allergies through a physical exam, medical history, and, if needed, allergy testing.

Colonia Pediatrics is here to support your child’s mental and emotional well-being. If you notice signs of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or other behavioral concerns, schedule a consultation with your pediatrician. We can provide guidance, resources, and referrals to specialists if needed.

To make vaccinations less stressful:

• Explain what will happen in simple terms.
• Bring a favorite toy or comfort item.
• Offer praise and reassurance before, during, and after the appointment.

Yes, Colonia Pediatrics accepts most major insurance plans. Please contact our office to confirm coverage and discuss any questions about billing or payment.

If your child requires specialized care, Colonia Pediatrics can provide referrals to trusted pediatric specialists in the area. We’ll work closely with you and the specialist to ensure your child receives the best care.

You can schedule an appointment by:

• Visiting our website and clicking the “Book an Appointment” button.
• Calling your nearest Colonia Pediatrics location directly.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, please call our office as soon as possible. We appreciate at least 24 hours’ notice to accommodate other families.

Yes, Colonia Pediatrics offers telemedicine appointments for certain conditions and follow-ups. Contact our office to learn more about virtual care options.

In case of a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For non-emergency urgent care, contact Colonia Pediatrics for same-day appointments.

Colonia Pediatrics is committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive, and convenient care for your family. With same-day appointments, multiple locations, and a team of experienced pediatricians, we’re here to support your child’s health and well-being every step of the way.