US Medical Term · maternity
Pediatrician
Pediatra
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Pediatrician |
| Spanish (Español) | Pediatra |
| Chinese (中文) | 兒科醫師 |
| Korean (한국어) | 소아과 의사 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Bác sĩ nhi khoa |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Pediatrician |
| Portuguese (Português) | Pediatra |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | กุมารแพทย์ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 小児科医 |
What it means
A pediatrician is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in the care of infants, children, and adolescents from birth through age 18. Pediatricians provide well-child checkups, diagnose and treat illnesses, administer vaccines, track growth and developmental milestones, and refer to specialists when needed. In the US, it is recommended to choose a pediatrician before your baby is born so they can see your newborn within a few days of discharge. Pediatricians complete at least 3 years of specialized residency training after medical school. General practitioners (family medicine doctors) can also provide pediatric care, especially in rural areas.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Can I meet with a pediatrician before my baby is born to ask questions and choose my provider?
¿Puedo reunirme con un pediatra antes de que nazca mi bebé para hacer preguntas y elegir a mi médico?
My baby needs to see a specialist — will the pediatrician coordinate the referral?
Mi bebé necesita ver a un especialista — ¿el pediatra coordinará la derivación?
Does your practice have a pediatrician available after hours if my child gets sick at night?
¿Su consultorio tiene un pediatra disponible fuera del horario de atención si mi hijo se enferma por la noche?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026