What is the difference between an ER and a Pediatric ER?

A general ER treats patients of all ages, while a Pediatric ER is specifically designed and staffed to treat only children, with equipment and medical professionals specializing in pediatric care.

When should I take my child to a Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctor?

You should take your child to a Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctor for serious injuries or sudden, severe illnesses that require immediate attention and cannot wait for a regular doctor's appointment.

Do Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctors treat babies?

Yes, Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctors are specifically trained to treat infants, newborns, children, and teenagers, understanding their unique medical needs.

Will my pediatrician be informed about the visit?

Often, the Pediatric Emergency Medicine team will communicate with your primary pediatrician to ensure continuity of care, but you can also request a copy of the visit summary to share.

What information should I bring to the emergency room for my child?

Bring your child's insurance card, a list of their medications, known allergies, and any significant medical history or conditions.

Is a Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctor the same as a family doctor?

No, a family doctor provides ongoing primary care; a Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctor specializes in acute, emergency care for children only.

Find a Pediatric Emergency Medicine Near You

40 verified pediatric emergency medicine specialists are accepting patients. Compare ratings, insurance accepted, languages spoken, and telehealth options.

License verified Board certified

When your child is sick or hurt, it can be a really scary time for any parent. You want the best care, and you want it fast. That's where a Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctor comes in. These are special doctors who have extra training to take care of kids specifically during urgent and emergency situations.

Unlike general emergency room doctors who treat adults and children, Pediatric Emergency Medicine specialists focus only on kids, from newborns all the way through their teenage years. They understand that children's bodies work differently, and they know how to talk to kids and make them feel safe. Finding the right doctor quickly can make all the difference when your child needs immediate attention. Use our directory to connect with expert care near you and get the peace of mind you deserve.

Conditions treated

Asthma attacks
Severe allergic reactions
Broken bones
High fevers in infants
Serious infections
Head injuries
Diabetic emergencies
Seizures
Breathing problems

Common procedures

Suturing wounds
Setting fractures
Breathing support
IV fluids
Pain management
Foreign body removal
Diagnostic imaging
Medication administration

When to see a pediatric emergency medicine

Your child has severe difficulty breathing.
Your child experienced a significant head injury.
Your child is experiencing unmanageable pain.
Your child has a high fever with rash or lethargy.
Your child has a suspected broken bone.
Your child ingested a harmful substance.

First visit

At the first visit, you can expect the doctor and nurses to quickly assess your child's condition, ask about their symptoms and medical history, and perform necessary tests. Their main goal is to stabilize your child and provide immediate treatment.

Typical cost

Out-of-pocket costs for a Pediatric Emergency Medicine visit can vary widely, typically ranging from $100 to over $1,000 depending on the services, facility, and your insurance plan's deductible and copay.

Insurance

Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid and CHIP, cover Pediatric Emergency Medicine visits, especially for emergencies.

How to choose the right pediatric emergency medicine

1Look for board certification in Pediatric Emergency Medicine.
2Check their experience with conditions similar to your child's needs.
3Verify which insurance plans they accept.
4Consider the hospital's reputation for pediatric care.
5Ask about their communication style with parents.
6Read patient reviews for insights into their practice.
7Ask your pediatrician for a recommendation.

Browse by state

FL (186)TX (31)NC (18)TN (16)NJ (15)NV (13)OR (12)GA (12)CA (10)PA (9)MA (8)AZ (8)

Top pediatric emergency medicines

No providers are listed under Pediatric Emergency Medicine yet — showing closely related specialists (Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine, Emergency Medicine).