Choosing your child’s healthcare provider is one of the first important decisions you’ll make as a parent. It sets the foundation for long-term, trusted care.
Parents often weigh the choice between a pediatrician, a family doctor, and a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP). Understanding the differences between these providers can help you make the best decision for your family.
Pediatrician vs Family Doctor
Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in the physical, emotional, and developmental care of children from birth through young adulthood. They complete years of advanced training focused exclusively on pediatrics.
Family doctors are trained to treat patients of all ages—from newborns to seniors. While they provide excellent care across the lifespan, they may not focus as deeply on childhood-specific conditions or developmental milestones.
Many families prefer pediatricians because their practice environment, staff training, and day-to-day experience are all centered on kids.
Pediatrician vs Pediatric Nurse: What’s the Difference?
Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) are advanced practice nurses with graduate-level education in pediatric care. They can perform physical exams, diagnose common illnesses, manage chronic conditions, and prescribe medications. In Colorado, PNPs can practice independently.
Pediatricians and PNPs often work side by side. Pediatricians are ideal for complex or long-term health issues. PNPs are often your first point of contact for well-child visits, minor illnesses, and preventive care.
At The Youth Clinic, our team includes both. No matter who your child sees, their care is backed by shared medical records, collaboration, and pediatric expertise.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Provider
Regardless of provider type, it’s important to evaluate how a practice supports your family. Ask:
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Does the team specialize in child health?
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Are same-day sick visits available?
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Can they help manage chronic conditions like asthma or ADHD?
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Do they offer on-site services like behavioral health, lactation support, or dietitians?
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What are the office hours—and is after-hours care available?
Additional Supportive Services
Many pediatric practices offer care beyond standard checkups. Ask what’s available under one roof.
At The Youth Clinic, we offer:
This team-based model supports your child’s physical and emotional development at every stage.
Hospital Coverage and Collaboration
It’s also helpful to understand how a practice works with specialists or hospitals.
The Youth Clinic’s pediatricians serve as hospitalists at UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital, providing continuity of care if your child ever needs inpatient support. We also coordinate care with specialists across Northern Colorado when needed.
Location and Office Hours
- Ensure the pediatrician’s office is easily accessible and that the office hours suit your family’s schedule.
- Find out what care options are available for your child outside of regular office hours.
Insurance
- Verify that the practice accepts your medical insurance, and if there is a staff person available to assist with insurance-related inquiries.
Communication
- Inquire about the process of providers returning phone calls, and how urgent matters are managed outside of regular business hours.
- Understand how you can communicate with your doctor and the office outside of appointments.
Pediatrician, Family Doctor, or Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: What’s Right for You?
There’s no single right answer. All three provider types—pediatricians, family doctors, and pediatric nurse practitioners—can offer excellent care.
The key is finding a provider (and practice) that:
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Specializes in children’s health
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Communicates clearly and respectfully
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Offers services that match your child’s needs
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Makes it easy to get timely, high-quality care
The Youth Clinic: Trusted Support for Families in Northern Colorado
For the past 60 years, The Youth Clinic has has been a pillar of support for children and families in Northern Colorado. Our dedicated team is made up of 9 pediatricians and 7 pediatric physician assistants/nurse practitioners, all of whom are highly skilled and passionate about child health. Operating across four convenient locations, we are committed to providing accessible and quality care to our community.
Comprehensive Pediatric Care and Support for Every Stage of Your Child’s Journey
At The Youth Clinic, we believe in nurturing the health of our community’s children, and we are honored to be a part of your family’s journey. Whether you’re visiting us for a routine check-up or need specialized support, our team is here to help every step of the way.
We look forward to collaborating with you in caring for your child. To register as a new patient and schedule an appointment, please call 970-482-2515.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a family doctor do for children?
Family doctors are trained to care for patients of all ages—including infants and children. They can perform physical exams, diagnose common illnesses, and provide preventive care. However, their training is broader, not specific to pediatrics.
What’s the difference between a pediatrician and a pediatric nurse?
Pediatricians are medical doctors with pediatric residency training. Pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) are advanced practice nurses with graduate education in pediatric care. Both can diagnose, treat, and prescribe.
Can pediatric nurses prescribe medication?
Yes. In Colorado, pediatric nurse practitioners have full authority to prescribe medications and manage care independently.
Should I choose a pediatrician or a nurse practitioner?
For routine care, either is a strong choice. Pediatricians are helpful for complex or chronic conditions. PNPs are ideal for preventive care and minor illnesses.
Do they work together at The Youth Clinic?
Yes. Our team-based model means PNPs and pediatricians share records, collaborate on care, and coordinate referrals when needed.
Is it OK to take my child to a family doctor?
Yes. Many families choose family doctors, especially in areas with limited pediatric-specific practices. Family doctors are qualified to care for children, but they may not offer the same depth of pediatric specialization or child-focused services.
What’s the benefit of choosing a pediatrician over a family doctor?
Pediatricians focus exclusively on child development and health. They’re trained to spot age-specific issues and developmental delays, and often work in environments designed specifically for children. For babies, toddlers, and kids with complex needs, a pediatrician may offer more targeted support.
How do pediatricians, pediatric nurses, and family doctors compare?
All three can provide excellent care. Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in child health. Pediatric nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses with pediatric training. Family doctors treat patients across all age groups. The right fit depends on your child’s needs and your family’s preferences.