At what age do you stop taking your kid to the pediatrician?

[SW FL Dem]

My son is 14, 5'8" and 180 pounds. He's shaving at least once a week and his voice his changed. I don't want to know how much the rest of his body has changed. He's clearly entered puberty and is bigger and heavier than many adults. He's been taking adult dosages of meds for years. He needs a checkup but really doesn't want to go to his pediatrician. Last time we were there, he was humiliated to be sitting in the waiting room with babies and toddlers. He was also embarrassed to strip for his female doctor. Is it too early to send him to hubby's GP?

[Sweet Freedom]

1. My suggestion...

I would call the pediatrician and tell her exactly what you have told us. Unless there's some medical reason why he HAS to see a pediatrician, I would imagine she'd refer your son to a new doctor.

[SoCalDem]

2. Call husband's GP, and have him set up an appointment

to see his new patient, and have Dad go with him.. a rite of passage..your baby boy is Dad's Man child now :cry:

[Debbi801]

3. Our pediatrcian sees kids up until they are 18...

But at your son's age, I'd ask him what he prefers. I know that I was about your son's age when I was switched from a pediatrician to a family doctor.

[phylny]

4. Age 18 was when we made the switch.

I always ask for a female doctor for my daughters, and they appreciate it GREATLY :)

I agree with the above advice, though - ask him, and see if a family practice doctor might be better for your son.

[mopinko]

5. around here, til 18 most docs won't

see them. specialists included.

[rucky]

6. He'll tell you. n/t

[Dervill Crow]

7. Usually at 18.

Even when they look like adults, there are still "kid" physiological changes going on with their bodies, especially boys.