How old were your kids when your changed from a pediatrician to a family doctor?

Question

I am thinking of bringing my 15 year old son and 13 year old twins to my family doctor. I wonder if I will come to regret this move.

Answer 1

Our pediatrician and family doctor are in the same practice.  When the kids are old enough (I think they said between 16 and 18yo) , the pediatrician will switch them to our family doctor.  If you feel more comfortable with your kids seeing the family doctor, then you should switch them,  

Answer 2

They are more than old enough to stop seeing a pediatrician.  

Answer 3

I switched at 17, after my college physical.  I really didn't see a big difference in care at either place.  I think the older one is old enough to switch, and the younger ones are probably old enough too, but unless its a huge hassle to continue where you are, I'd wait a few years on the twins.  My brothers switched over at a yougner age than me(probable at 15 or 16).  The main priority is that they are going to a good doctor.  I see little ones (babies and children) at my doctors office all the time, and I'm pretty sure there are no pediatricians there.  If they feel comfortable switching, then it won't be a big deal, but if they like where they are I'd leave them for a bit longer, maybe switch them all in  2 years or something.

Answer 4

I think they're at a fine age to do it.

We don't even see a pediatrician (our town only has two, and they're awful).

There really are no issues at that age that a family doctor can't address, particularly since they are closing in on the end of their physical development and should be needing fewer well-child visits now.

Answer 5

We have both. I have always used my family doctor and pediatrician for care with my daughter. If I couldn't get in to see one, I'd always be able to see the other. I'd go with your family doctor, but keep the pediatrician too, just in case. Second opinions are never a bad thing either.