Many children have developed an intense fear of medical offices. Through the eyes of a child, a doctor’s office is a place to be poked and prodded, and this often happens when they are not feeling well. The doctor’s office may be equated with throat swabs that make them gag, injections with sharp needles and more. These experiences may be tolerated when you are an adult and understand the benefit or need. Young children lack this understanding, so some of their fear and anxiety may be justified. As a medical professional, there are a few steps that you can take to reduce your patients’ fears.
Hire Friendly Staff Members
Children may remember nurses and office staff members who are rude or unkind, and this hostility can put them on edge and linger as a negative emotion related to your office. On the other hand, cheerful and friendly professionals may put young children at ease almost immediately. Take time to assess the personality and demeanor of your staff members. Ensure that all of them are great with kids and are generally pleasant, happy individuals.
Update Your Décor
Your office décor also impacts a patient’s overall experience. Consider updating your décor so that it uses bright or pleasing hues and has a fun or upbeat vibe. You may include books and small toys in the waiting room and exam rooms. The waiting room may also have comfortable, child-sized chairs. An aquarium with fish may be a nice touch because it could take children’s minds off of the reason for their visit.
Offer Alternatives to Administer Medications and Vaccines
You may also be able to adjust some of your procedures to make them less uncomfortable for your young patients. Alternative dosage delivery options are an idea to consider. For example, flu vaccinations and some other vaccinations are now available in a mist form as an alternative to an injection. If you are administering medication on-site, consider investing in flavor additives that can make the medications more palatable or refer your patients to an apothecary that offers them.
A visit to a doctor’s office can create anxiety for little patients, but you can see that there are multiple steps that you can take to improve their experience. Before you make any changes to your office environment, staff or procedures, spend time overseeing your patients’ visits from start to finish. You may even ask parents to complete a survey for feedback that is specific to your office. The information that you gather can guide your efforts.