Pediatricians provide medical care for infants, children, teenagers, and young adults.

Pediatricians provide primary care and take care of children's general health needs. They ask parents questions to learn about their child's health. Like most doctors, pediatricians focus on preventing problems before they begin.

Pediatricians see their youngest patients for regularly scheduled visits called well-baby checks. At each check-up, they check the child's growth, weight, and development. They advise parents about immunizations and other ways to keep their children healthy. They educate their older children about exercise, hygiene, and eating healthy food.

Pediatricians examine patients and order lab tests. They explain test results and review treatment options with parents and the patient. If more than one treatment option is available, they help parents decide which option to choose. They also monitor the patient's condition and make changes in the treatment plan if needed.

For serious conditions, pediatricians refer patients to health care specialists for testing or treatment. Some pediatricians specialize in treating children with cancer or heart problems.

Pediatricians share similar tasks with other types of physicians, they:

• Assign tasks to nurses and other health care workers
• Consult with other health care professionals
• Oversee the business aspects of running an office
• Keep detailed records about each patient
• Write reports for insurance companies and government agencies

Some pediatricians teach at medical schools. They may also do research on procedures and treatments for disease. Advances in medicine require pediatricians to update their skills regularly.