FAQs
What if I cannot be at the visit and my child comes with a nanny or sitter?
We understand parents cannot be at every visit with their child. If you will not be present for your child's visit we ask that you send a note stating we have your permission to treat your child in your absence. There is a form that you can print and use under 'Your Visit".
What do I do in case of an emergency?
We recognize that an emergency can arise and we will do our best to respond quickly. We may recommend that you visit an Urgent Care or Emergency Room, if it is in the best interest of the patient; patient needs x-rays, sutures, re-hydration, or specialized care. In the event of a severe situation, or one in which you are in doubt, go directly to the emergency room of the nearest hospital or call 911. The emergency room physician may contact us for additional information regarding the illness.
Do you have a policy regarding cancelled or missed appointment?
Appointments should be cancelled or rescheduled as early as possible. We request that appointments be cancelled or rescheduled at least 3 hours in advance for a sick appointment and the day prior for a well child appointment. Missed appointments will result in fees for the missed appointment. There are other consequences for chronically missed appointments. Please ask for a copy of the policy if you would like more details.
What if we are running late for an appointment?
Late arrivals contribute to wait times patients encounter at Wheaton Pediatrics. If you are unavoidably detained, we request a phone call as soon as you are aware that you will be late, giving the reason and your estimated time of arrival. Families who are 15 minutes late or more for their appointment may need to reschedule their child's appointment. Additionally, late arrivals without notification may be considered as a missed appointment.
Do you have x-ray or lab facilities at your practice?
We do not have an x-ray facility at our location. We are however across the street from an urgent care that does have x-ray capability. Laboratory testing for a current illness can be performed at the office when your child is being seen by one of our providers. Staffing does not allow for testing needed for chronic health issues or requests from specialists. If your child needs routine testing, please take your prescription/order to a laboratory at a location that is convenient for you. If you need help locating a laboratory, please call the office and we will assist you. Your insurance plan may have restrictions regarding laboratory facilities. Please check with them before you have your laboratory tests done.
At what age will you stop treating my child?
Patients over 18 years of age should plan on seeking healthcare with a medical professional trained to treat adults. We can assist you in the transfer of your records to the provider of your choice upon your written request. An exception to this is young adults who are away at college. Wheaton Pediatrics can continue to care for college students until they graduate. Upon college completion, you should plan on finding a medical provider who treats adults. All of our patients who have turned 18 years old are considered adults and have sole rights to their medical information. As an adult, they are entitled to make their own appointments, come alone to their appointment, request health information on the phone or in person from the doctors, nurse practitioners or nursing staff of Wheaton Pediatrics without permission from a parent. Wheaton Pediatrics cannot release medical information to the parent without the patient's written permission. If you are a college student and you want your parent to assist you in relaying information to the office, you will need to complete a consent form that will give our staff the ability to speak to your parent/s. The consent form is available for download under 'Your Visit', forms link.
How do I pick up necessary prescriptions for my child?
Certain types of prescriptions cannot be called to a pharmacy; the parent needs to present a written prescription to the pharmacist. If you have requested such a prescription and do not want it mailed to you, you may pick the prescription up at the front desk. Wheaton Pediatrics requires that the parent/guardian or patient over 18 years old pick up prescriptions and forms personally. You will be required to sign for all medical items that are picked up from the front desk. We understand that you may not always be able to personally pick up these items. If this should happen, you need to send a signed and dated not of authorization for the person picking up the items.
How do I have previous records sent to your office or have existing records sent to a new provider?
The original medical record at any facility is the property of that facility. The information contained in that record is the property of the patient or guardian. The patient or guardian is entitled to review the chart, obtain photocopies or request release of the record to a third party upon written authorization. Most other medical facilities also require written authorization for release of their records to us. You can find both release requests in the 'Your Visit' forms link of the website. There may be fees associated with release of records. Please call the medical records manager at our office with questions about records release or fees.
