Sick Child Visits

When Your Child Is Sick

It’s important to have prompt medical attention that helps your child feel better and gets them on the road to healing.  We understand parents’ worry and offer same-day sick visits to quickly start the treatment your child needs.


If you have questions about your child’s health or you need to bring your child in for a sick visit, call the office so we can talk about your child’s symptoms and schedule a visit based on their health needs. 

Sick Child Visits FAQs

Click below to view the answer to commonly asked questions.

  • When Can I Schedule a Sick Visit?

    If you’re ever in doubt about whether your child needs a sick visit, please call our office.  We are happy to see your child the same day if possible.   If you have questions or unsure if your child needs to be seen, our clinical team will be happy to talk with you.


    You can schedule same-day sick visits any time the office is open, which includes every weekday by appointment.

  • What Happens During a Sick Child Visit?

    The goal of a sick child visit is to quickly diagnose the problem and start treatment that will help your child feel better.  In addition to reviewing your child’s symptoms and medical history, a sick visit may include a nasal swab, a throat swab, a urine test, and a physical exam that includes checking your child’s heart, neck, throat, ears, abdomen, and extremities.


    In our office, we have rapid tests for strep throat, RSV, Flu, and COVID.  We can screen urine samples as well.  If we need to do lab work, we have the major labs (LabCorp, Quest, and MWH) just a short distance away.

  • What Children's Conditions Can a Sick Visit Treat?

    Sick visits treat many types of injuries and illnesses that need same-day or next-day medical care. Children’s symptoms can change quickly, so don’t hesitate to call if your child’s symptoms get worse.


    The following are some of the most common conditions treated during sick visits:

    • Earaches 
    • Sore throat 
    • Congestion
    • Coughs
    • Abdominal pain
    • Asthma
    • Rashes or hives
    • Allergic reactions
    • Eye discharge or infection
    • Vomiting and/or diarrhea
    • Headaches

    We also treats minor injuries like cuts or burns.  We do not do stitches, staples, or glue closure in the office.  We would refer you to urgent care or the ED.

  • When Does My Child Need Immediate Medical Care?

    While all the conditions often treated during a sick visit have the potential to need immediate care, some symptoms are red flags that your child needs quick medical attention.


    Call us immediately for the following symptoms:


    • Fever of 100.4ºF or higher in a child  younger than 2 months of age.
    • Fever that lasts longer than three days
    • Unusual symptoms lasting more than three days
    • Persistent pain
    • Widespread rash 
    • Fever of 102ºF or higher in a child older than two months of age without other symptoms.
    • Not eating/drinking well.  You are concerned about dehydration.
    • Limping or Inability to walk.

    Other symptoms that may appear with a fever that signal a potentially serious problem include a rash, stiff neck, vomiting, and headache.


    When your child is sick, call the office as early in the day as possible so they can schedule a same-day visit if necessary.


    If you have questions about your child’s symptoms or you need to schedule a sick visit, please call our office.