We know that children get sick unexpectedly, and often need to be seen on fairly short notice. Usually you will find that if you call in the morning, you can be seen by your usual pediatrician sometime that day for a sick visit. If it is a very busy time, or if your pediatrician happens to be away from the office, you may make an appointment to see one of the other doctors. For checkup visits, please call 2-3 weeks in advance of your checkup to assure a time that is most convenient. Sometimes you will not need to call that far in advance, but during some seasons (late summer) checkup appointments are full a few weeks in advance.

What if my child becomes ill or I have questions about her? Is there someone that I can call?

If your child is sick and you are unsure if she needs to be seen, feel free to call and speak to one of our nurses. She will be able to advise you on caring for your child right away, and help you know if and when you need to bring her in. If you have questions about your child, the nurse will also be happy to give you advice on many questions that may arise. Sometimes you may find that you want to talk directly with your pediatrician by phone. Rountinely, these phone calls are returned at lunchtime or at the end of the day.

What do I do if my child is sick on the weekend or at night?

If your child becomes ill at night or the on weekend, you can call our regular office number (901-683-9371). Your call will be returned by an experienced pediatric nurse who will be able to help you take the best care of your child. If your child is very ill, or if you would like to speak to the doctor directly, one of the pediatricians is also available on-call. Our office is open during the morning on Saturday for sick visits. You may call after 8:30 a.m. on Saturday for an appointment. On Sundays the on-call physician comes to the office to meet patients with emergent problems. If your child becomes sick overnight, you may bring her into the office as a walk-in at 8:00 a.m. during the week. There is an extra charge for these unscheduled visits, but sometimes children do need to be seen right away first thing in the morning.

What do I do if I have questions about caring for my child?

As a new or experienced parent, you may have many questions that come up. Some of those questions may seem silly, but actually they are not. All new parents (and most repeat parents) have a natural anxiety about being parents and knowing exactly how to care for their babies. Please feel free to call our nurses to ask questions no matter how silly they may seem!

What hospitals do you use?

We are affiliated with LeBonheur, the Methodist Hospitals (Germantown and North), the Baptist Hospitals (East and Women's), and St. Francis at Park.

Do you take my insurance?

Probably so. Through the changes in the health care industry regarding insurance plans and physician panels we have tried to remain affiliated with as many plans as possible to continue serving our patients and community. If you have specific questions about your particular insurance coverage, please feel free to call us.