Being a Doctor’s Kid: Routine Exams and Health Awareness

Having a parent who is a doctor can sometimes lead to more frequent check-ups or heightened awareness of health issues. However, this doesn't necessarily mean every minor issue will result in an examination. Parents, regardless of their profession, often balance their roles as caregivers and professionals. A doctor parent might be more knowledgeable about health concerns and proactive about preventive care, but they also understand the importance of not overreacting to minor issues.

This article explores the experiences of a doctor’s kid from the 1950s and how they navigated healthcare routines and health awareness within their family. It highlights the balancing act between too much and too little health vigilance, providing insights for both healthcare professionals and parents.

Early Experiences with Doctor Parents

I grew up in the 1950s as a child of a doctor. Even then, my father was attentive to our health needs. For the most part, we received our vaccinations at a mass site as private practice doctors might not have had the Sabin polio vaccine yet. I still have a smallpox scar on my hip, courtesy of my mother, who ensured it was well-covered by a swimsuit. One of the more memorable perks? We got popcorn after shots! This treat made the experience a little more bearable, especially for the young ones.

Mostly, we were healthy, but there were a few instances where health issues loomed a bit larger. One of the most vivid memories is a high fever that wouldn’t break, despite my father’s medical intervention and his mother’s home remedies. I narrowly escaped a trip to the hospital, thanks to a novel yet effective solution: my favorite fruit juice, served in large beer mugs, finally worked to reduce the fever. From that day onward, I’ve sworn off grape juice entirely!

Another significant event from my childhood was a severe ankle injury during my teenage years. My father promptly treated and X-rayed it, ensuring proper care. When the ankle finally healed, it didn’t function quite the same. Moreover, I babysat for an orthopedist, giving me the opportunity to experience healthcare from the other side. This exposure allowed me to ask for a second opinion when my ankle hadn’t improved. To my surprise, my father took it well and agreed that getting a second opinion is always wise.

Healthcare Routines and Proactive Care

Doctors often have a unique perspective on healthcare routines. They recognize that many common illnesses are self-limiting, meaning they will resolve on their own without medical intervention. This knowledge can help parents and families decide whether a doctor’s visit is necessary or if a bit of rest and proper care at home is sufficient. My father was particularly adept at explaining this concept. He emphasized that 85% of common illnesses are self-limiting. By providing this information, he encouraged us to self-manage minor issues and avoid unnecessary medical bills.

In the end, the idea of being a doctor’s kid involves a balance between overly cautious and too casual approaches to health. It can instill a solid foundation for understanding and managing health issues, making every individual aware of the importance of health awareness and routine check-ups.

Conclusion

Being a doctor’s kid taught me the importance of understanding my body and health. It also highlighted the importance of a balanced approach to healthcare—neither too much nor too little intervention. Whether you’re a doctor’s kid, a healthcare professional, or a parent, these insights can help you navigate the world of health and wellness more effectively.