Pediatrics
Welcome to Yale Health Pediatrics
Yale Health Pediatrics provides exceptional, compassionate care for your child from infancy through adolescence. We understand that parenting can come with many questions and concerns, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our team of caring physicians, nurse practitioners, and pediatric nurses is committed to helping your child grow healthy and strong. We are honored to partner with you in your child’s wellness journey, providing personalized care and guidance through all stages of development.
Our top priority is your child's well-being, and we look forward to partnering with your family to ensure a lifetime of health and happiness.
Well-Child Appointments
We follow the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended schedule for routine well-child visits to ensure your child’s growth and development are on track.
- Newborns are typically seen 1–3 days after hospital discharge and again at two weeks and 1 month.
- Regular visit series occur at 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months.
- Annual visits through adolescence.
- Additional visits may be needed if special health concerns arise.
Your child will be assigned to one of our trusted providers; however, requests for a specific provider may be accommodated.
If another pediatric practice has previously seen your child, we recommend completing a Release of Health Information form before your child's first visit for a seamless experience.
Tip: We understand the importance of your time. Schedule well-child visits as early as possible to ensure your preferred time. We strive to accommodate your schedule as much as possible.
Advice and Sick Visits
If your child is unwell or you have concerns about an illness or injury, our dedicated pediatric triage team is available to assist. Call us from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday to discuss your child’s symptoms with our nurses.
A triage nurse is a specially trained nurse who helps assess the urgency of your child's medical needs over the phone. When you call with concerns about your child's illness or injury, the triage nurse will ask detailed questions about your child’s symptoms. Based on this conversation, the nurse will determine the next best step: whether your child needs to be seen right away, can wait for a scheduled appointment, or can manage the issue at home with simple care instructions.
Tip: This service is incredibly helpful for parents because it provides quick access to expert advice, ensuring your child gets the right care when needed. It can save you unnecessary trips to the doctor’s office for minor concerns while also giving you peace of mind, knowing that if the situation requires immediate attention, the nurse will guide you appropriately. It’s like having a knowledgeable partner who helps you make confident decisions about your child’s health.
After-hours and Weekend Care
For urgent concerns after hours, on weekends, or during holidays, please call the Acute Care triage nurse at 203-432-0123.
Overnight, an Acute Care or Triage nurse will determine whether you need to speak to the pediatric clinician on-call, come in the next day for an appointment, or go to the emergency room.
On Saturdays, Sundays, recess days, and holidays from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., our pediatric team of clinicians and nurses work on-site in Acute Care. Pediatric phone triage is available from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. As always, please call first.
Teens and Confidentiality
At Yale Health Pediatrics, we prioritize creating a safe and respectful environment for teens. We encourage them to take charge of their health and well-being as they grow. Starting in middle school, providers may request to speak with your teen privately during visits to foster open communication and trust. While confidentiality is key, you always have the option to decline this request.
Connecticut law: Certain healthcare decisions can be made by teens aged 13 to 18 without parental consent (e.g., reproductive health, mental health, substance use, and HIV/AIDS testing).
MyChart and Proxy Access
As a parent or guardian, you can use MyChart to access your child’s health information until their 13th birthday. From 13 to 18 years old, access becomes more limited due to privacy laws. However, you can still access much of your child's chart, including messages, allergy information, and immunizations through “Teen Limited Proxy.” Teens can create their own MyChart account to view their full health records.
For special circumstances, parents can discuss maintaining full access with their child’s primary care provider.
Learn more about MyChart Proxy Access for Teens.
Forms
We provide school and daycare health forms at every well-child visit starting at 2 months. Please keep copies, as they may be required throughout the year. Completed health forms are also available in the ‘Letters’ section of MyChart. Additional forms can be sent via MyChart, dropped off at Pediatrics, or faxed to 203-432-0072. Allow 5–7 business days for form completion.
The most common forms are located on Forms & Guidelines.
Vaccines
Vaccines play a critical role in preventing disease and promoting public health. We adhere to the American Academy of Pediatrics' vaccination schedule to protect your child from preventable illnesses. Deviation from this schedule is strongly discouraged, as it can put your child at unnecessary risk.
Tip: Discuss vaccine schedules and specific vaccines, such as COVID, with your provider during routine visits.
Medical Chaperones
For patients aged 13 and older, a medical chaperone will be present during sensitive exams, treatments, or procedures to ensure comfort and safety.
Collaborative Mental Health Care in Pediatrics
We have embedded a mental health program in the pediatric team to meet the growing demand for common mental health services for children and adolescents. We provide easy access to treatment for young patients and empower families during challenging times. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive, holistic care, making significant strides in supporting the mental well-being of our youth. Click for more information on this program.
