Ever wonder how your child’s pediatrician got so smart?
Pediatricians graduate from medical school and then receive specialized training in pediatrics for three or more years during their residency. Here, the pediatrician-in-training acquires the knowledge and skills necessary to treat a broad range of conditions, from the mildest childhood illnesses to the most serious diseasese.
After completing residency training, the pediatrician is eligible to take a written exam given by the American Board of Pediatrics. If she passes this exam, she will receive a certificate, which you may see hanging on the office wall.
What does “FAAP” stand for?
If you see the initials “FAAP” after a pediatrician’s name, it means she has passed her board exam and is now a full Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. This is the highest status of membership in this professional organization.
How do pediatricians become specialists?
Following their residency, some pediatricians elect an additional one to three years of training in a specialty, such as neonatology (the care of sick and premature newborns) or pediatric cardiology (the diagnosis and treament of heart problems in children).
General pediatricians often consult pediatric subspecialists when a patient develops uncommon or special problems. If a subpecialist is needed, your primary care pediatrician will help you find the right one for your child’s problem.
Last Updated 9/1/2020
Source Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5 7th Edition (Copyright © 2019 American Academy of Pediatrics)
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
