We believe that by promoting healthy emotional and physical development, as well as emphasizing the value of good nutrition, education and exercise, we can enable your child to build a strong foundation for his or her future. As part of our preventive philosophy, we also advocate the use of childhood vaccines, and will spend whatever time necessary to help you reach comfort with your decision to proceed with this important intervention.
We believe in maintaining a caring and personalized environment for your child. As a result, the office has been designed with this goal in mind.
We believe in the value of ongoing education for parents and caregivers. As a result, we take the time to enrich your knowledge about nutrition, mental health, education choices, and safety. In addition, we provide ongoing continuing education opportunities for our entire staff, so that they stay abreast of new developments in our field.
The Flu is here! We have seen several cases erupt in the last 3 weeks, and we anticipate many more in the following 2-3 months. It's not too late to vaccinate! The Center for Disease Control recommends that all individuals 6months and older receive Influenza protection every year (except those who have severe allergy to any of the components of the vaccine, history of anaphylaxis to the vaccine, or history of Guillain-Barre Syndrome).
The most important targeted groups that SHOULD receive vaccine are household members and caregivers of children under 6 months of age and children between 6 months of age and 5 years (especially those in daycare settings) and pregnant women.
ALL children with asthma, chronic lung disease, congenital/chronic heart disease, blood/genetic diseases, on immunosuppressive medication, children with diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis, on aspirin therapy, children with musculoskeletal disease, chronic aspiration, or with disabilities contributing to ill health should receive Flu vaccine. If there are household/family members with similar conditions, those living with and caring for them should take steps to protect their loved ones by getting immunized.
We should have enough vaccine for our patients, and their family members and caregivers, should you choose to come here to get your vaccine. We will bill insurance for our patients, however parents, extended family and caregivers must be prepared to pay for their vaccines at the time of service - there will be no exceptions. Caregivers and family members 65 YEARS AND OLDER should receive the "Senior" vaccine from their own doctors, as we will not stock this formulation.
If your child has a physical exam scheduled this winter, we can give the vaccine at the time of the visit (and to any accompanying family members, if desired). Otherwise, call the office to schedule your vaccines at (818) 783-3110. If you click on "Ill Topics" there is more information about this year's flu vaccine, and the suggested number of doses based on past immunization history. We'll see you soon!