Policies

We work hard to not overuse antibiotics.

We educate families on appropriate use of antibiotics, but follow evidence-based guidelines and don’t automatically treat ear pain or a green snotty nose with antibiotics.

We do not routinely prescribe antibiotics over the phone as we do not believe that is good medicine. We will prescribe an antibiotic when we believe it is an appropriate treatment.

The health and well-being of your children are our top priorities. We firmly support the expert guidance and recommendations provided by leading health authorities, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). As such, our vaccine policy aligns with the evidence-based immunization schedule developed by these organizations.

We believe:

• Vaccines save lives. Immunizations have been proven to prevent serious illnesses, reduce the spread of contagious diseases, and protect vulnerable populations.
• Vaccines are safe. Extensive research and rigorous safety standards ensure that vaccines are both effective and secure for children and young adults.
• Vaccines protect communities. By vaccinating according to the recommended schedule, we help prevent outbreaks and protect individuals who cannot be immunized, such as infants too young for certain vaccines or those with certain medical conditions.

• Recommended Schedule: We follow the immunization schedule endorsed by the AAP and ACIP because it has been carefully developed to provide the best protection at the most appropriate times.
• Evidence-Based Approach: Our recommendations are grounded in the latest medical research and data, reflecting a strong consensus among pediatric and public health experts.
• Transparent Communication: We are always available to discuss any questions or concerns about vaccines and are committed to providing clear, respectful information about the benefits and potential risks.

We understand that deciding how to protect your child’s health is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. By following this policy, we aim to ensure that every child in our care has the opportunity to grow up healthy, safe, and protected against preventable diseases.

Everyone's Time is Equally Valuable.

We ask that you arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. We understand sometimes things happen beyond your control that may cause you to be late. However, we reserve the right to ask you to reschedule if you arrive late for your appointment.

Our practice makes every effort to run on time with appointments, as we believe everyone’s time is equally valuable.
Upcoming Appointments Via Phone/Text Message/Email

Missed Appointments: Broken appointments represent a cost to us, to you, and to other patients who could have been seen in the time set aside for you. We reserve the right to charge a fee for canceled or missed appointments. We request 24 hours notice for cancellation of appointments.

A fee may be charged for a second missed appointment. The third consecutive missed appointment will result in discharge from the practice.

For new patients, a fee may be charged if the FIRST appointment is missed.

All co-payments are expected at time of service. For your convenience, Delaware Pediatrics accepts cash, personal checks, and Visa/MasterCard debit and credit cards. Surcharges will be assessed for returned checks or co-payments not made at time of service.

Our contracts with insurance companies require that we verify your current coverage and collect your co-payment at each visit. Please bring your insurance card to every appointment.

Efficiency through the use of technology

You will be encouraged to consult our website, register for and use our patient portal, and effectively use automated reminders for appointments and for routine care/immunizations that are due.

We value your right and your child's right to privacy and protection of classified health information. Therefore, our office does not permit video or audio recording unless otherwise discussed with your health care provider. We cannot guarantee recorded information will be kept to private settings; this could violate your and your child's right to privacy and protection if information is aired in public spaces.

Recordings that identify a patient or otherwise include PHI such as full face photos, distinct voices, photos, or videos of unique identifying marks, or photos and videos of patients that are date stamped (reflecting a date of service) are subject to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA). 

If you would like to record an encounter, please first have a discussion with your provider.