What is a pediatrician?
A pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in the healthcare of children from birth through adolescence. They diagnose, treat, and prevent illnesses in children and monitor their physical and psychological development. Pediatricians manage a wide range of childhood conditions, developmental concerns, vaccinations, and preventive check-ups.
Pediatricians provide comprehensive medical care, advise parents on child care, nutrition, and safety, and offer guidance on lifestyle and developmental support. During consultations, they examine the child, assess their health, and, if necessary, recommend additional tests or treatment.
What is a neonatologist?
A neonatologist is a doctor who specializes in the care of newborns, particularly premature babies or those with medical complications. They assess the health of newborns, diagnose congenital conditions, and provide intensive therapy during the first days of life.
Neonatologists manage a variety of neonatal issues, including respiratory problems, feeding difficulties, infections, and developmental monitoring. During consultations, they perform examinations, evaluate the newborn’s condition, and provide recommendations for treatment and care.
Dr. Jeļena Liepa
At “Republikas laukuma klīnikā”a highly qualified neonatologist and pediatrician provides care who:
- Assesses the newborn’s overall condition, reflexes, breathing, and feeding abilities.
- Evaluates the course of delivery and risk factors that may affect the child’s health.
- Listens to parents’ concerns and the child’s symptoms (e.g., fever, cough, rashes, loss of appetite).
- Assesses the child’s growth, development, and vaccination status.
- Performs a physical examination to evaluate overall health.
- Recommends additional tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, or ultrasound.
- Provides a treatment plan and recommendations for follow-up or specialist involvement.
- Offers advice on home care, feeding, and monitoring development.
Consultation with a Pediatrician or Neonatologist
The visit usually begins with a detailed discussion about the child’s health, symptoms, and development. The doctor will ask about pregnancy and delivery, past illnesses, medications, and family medical history. Various methods may be used to determine the diagnosis, and an individualized treatment plan will be developed based on the results.
When to Consider a Pediatric or Neonatology Consultation
Consultation should be considered if any of the following occur:
- Fever lasting more than 3 days
- Loss of appetite or feeding difficulties
- Breathing problems, cough, or wheezing
- Rashes that do not resolve or spread
- Developmental delays or unusual behavior
- Premature birth or complications after delivery
Timely consultation helps detect serious conditions early and start effective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are pediatrics and neonatology?
Pediatrics is the branch of medicine focused on child healthcare. Neonatology is a sub-specialty of pediatrics that focuses on the care of newborns, especially during the first weeks of life.
What are the most common childhood illnesses?
- Upper respiratory infections
- Bronchiolitis and pneumonia
- Allergies and atopic dermatitis
- Digestive disorders
- Developmental delays and behavioral issues
What examination methods are used?
- Physical examination
- Blood and urine tests
- Ultrasound
- ECG and echocardiography
- Developmental screening
What is the cost of a pediatric or neonatology consultation?
At “Republikas laukuma klīnika” a neonatologist/pediatric consultation costs €60.00.
