Category: Patient Resources

Divorced/Separated Parents Policy

Divorced/Separated Parents Policy

At Forest Lane Pediatrics, our goal is to partner with parents for healthy kids. We appreciate that
child(ren) with divorced or separated parents may present unique challenges, and we require parents to
work with us through those challenges. This policy was developed to avoid any misunderstandings going
forward.

  • The physicians, medical assistants, nurses, office, and billing staff will not be put in the middle of
    domestic issues or disagreements over the phone or in the office.
  • Please make decisions regarding appointments, vaccinations, and/or any office procedures prior
    to visiting our practice.
  • If there is NOT a court order on file with our office, either parent or legal guardian can sign a
    “Consent to Treat” form that authorizes any named individuals (like grandparents, nannies etc.) to
    bring your child to our practice, be present during the visit and consent to any treatment during
    that visit. We will not be involved in any disputes regarding named individuals on the consent
    forms unless instructed by the court. Either parent or legal guardian can schedule an appointment
    for their child, be present for the visit and/or obtain a copy of the visit summary.
  • Only in situations where there is a documented court order will one parent be denied access to
    the minor’s health record or visits at the office. Forest Lane Pediatrics must have a copy of the
    court order on file in the minor’s electronic medical record.
  • It is both parents’ responsibility to communicate with each other about the patient’s care, office
    visit dates, and any other pertinent information relevant to the patient. It is not the responsibility of
    our providers or staff to communicate visit information to each custodial parent separately.
  • Our physicians or staff will not call the other parent prior to an appointment to gain consent
    regarding appointments scheduled, nor will they take a call from the other parent following an
    appointment. We will not restrict either parent’s involvement in the patient’s care unless
    authorized by law; however, we also will not duplicate information delivery unless directed by law.
  • We will send reminders of upcoming appointments by text and/or phone call. We can send this
    reminder to only the primary phone number listed on the patient’s account. It is the responsibility
    of the parents to decide on who should receive these communications. Our system is not able to
    send out duplicate reminders.
  • All copays, deductibles, coinsurances, and any other fees are due at the time of the visit and are
    the responsibility of the parent accompanying the patient to the appointment. If there is an
    arrangement between the parents about split payment, it is the responsibility of the parent
    attending the appointment to collect from the other parent. Should the issues that come between parents become disruptive to our practice or there is non-compliance with this policy, we reserve the right to discharge the family from our practice.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information



Existing patients can schedule an appointment by following the steps below:

1. Click on “Get Care Now” at the top right corner of the page
2. Select See My Provider -> A doctor I have seen before -> Office Visit
3. Select Appointment Reason: Injection/Vaccination
4. Finally, select your appointment time

New Patients (including Parents of existing patients) must do the following to schedule an appointment:
Click here –  Appointment Request –  Fill out the information, and our staff will contact you to schedule your appointment!

Asthma Management

About 1 in 12 children live with asthma, and it is one of the most common reasons why children are absent from school, go to emergency rooms, or are admitted to hospitals. Having a child with asthma can be overwhelming and can be an adjustment to learn how to care for your child but asthma care will quickly become a regular part of your family’s routine. Helping your child know what triggers his asthma and using preventative medication (if needed) ensures that your child will grow up healthy, energetic, and strong!

What is asthma?

Asthma is a disease of inflammation and constriction of the airways.  In susceptible individuals, inflammation causes recurrent episodes of coughing (particularly at night or early morning), wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness. When your child has asthma, the airways become swollen (inflammation).  The swelling causes the airways to make thick secretions called mucus.  Asthma can also cause the muscle surrounding the airways to get very tight (constriction).  Inflammation, mucus, and constriction will all cause your child’s airway to narrow and it becomes very hard to get air into and out of the lungs.  Environmental factors play a critical role in asthma recognition and management.

Who gets asthma?

Asthma is the most common serious chronic illness of children.  Factors that may increase a child’s risk for asthma includes other family members with allergies, asthma or eczema, infectious, exposure to different allergens, tobacco exposure, and exposure to pollution.  Children with other types of allergic disease (food allergy, seasonal allergies, or eczema) have a higher likelihood of developing asthma.  Children with a history of bronchiolitis are also at higher risk for developing asthma.

What are symptoms of asthma?

Some symptoms can appear quickly and others develop over time.  A cough may be the first and sometimes is the only asthma symptom.  Other symptoms include: wheezing (high pitched musical sound), difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath, chest tightness, reduced exercise tolerance, cough with exercise, night time awakening due to cough or wheezing, chronic cough.

What is an asthma “attack”?

In an asthma “attack,” the airways can spasm and become narrower causing more severe symptoms.  Your child may breathe so fast that he or she may have trouble talking.  The inner lining of the airways becomes swollen, and the outer muscular lining of the airways constrict, making breathing labored. 

How do you manage asthma?

Depending on the frequency and severity of your child’s symptoms, your child’s doctor will prescribe medications to minimize symptoms and maximize your child’s ability to participate fully in life. Besides medication, avoiding those triggers that are avoidable (such as cigarette smoke) can help reduce the need for medication. Your child’s doctor might also recommend allergy testing to see if allergy plays a significant role in your child’s asthma.  While there is no one perfect medicine that controls all asthma, most children’s asthma can be well controlled to minimize symptoms and maximize your child’s ability to take part in things he enjoys. We also want to make sure your child’s symptoms are well controlled at school and that he has any needed rescue medications at school. If you have questions about your child’s asthma, please call your child’s doctor or set up an appointment so that he or she can examine your child and answer your questions fully for you.

Are flu vaccines recommended in children with asthma?

All children should get their flu vaccine every year.  However it is especially important for children with asthma to get their flu vaccine every fall to reduce their risk of getting the flu.  Children with asthma who get the flu may develop inflammation in their airways that can lead to asthma attacks, pneumonia and other respiratory diseases that can result in hospitalization.  

Click on the following links to learn more about asthma, its management, and prevention:

Click on the following links for helpful videos from the American Lung Association

Additional resources for parents

Resources for physicians

Patient Forms

Forms can be completed online through the patient portal or you can print them from our website and bring them with you to your appointment.

Insurance Navigation Tips

Disclaimer:
These are just a few tips we have found helpful in the past.
This is not a legal document.

Key Terms You Should Know:

Co-Pay*: If you have a co-pay on your plan, this is the set fee that you must pay when you use the plan. We will ask you for this payment at the beginning of your child’s visit.

Deductible*: This is the amount that you must pay before the insurance will begin to pay. Many plans will allow you to choose your own deductible, if this is the case keep in mind that the higher the deductible, the lower the premium will be.However, the higher the deductible, the more you will have to pay when you use the plan.

Co-Insurance*: After the deductible there might also be a co-insurance. This means that you and the insurance company will share the cost of your remaining fees. The co-insurance is typically broken down by percentage like 80/20 or 70/30. If you choose a plan that has a 80/20 co-insurance, typically you will be in charge of paying 20% and the insurance will be in charge of the other 80%.

In-Network, Out-of-Network: Medical facilities and practitioners that have contracted with the insurance companies to provide discounted rates, direct billing and other services are considered In Network. Those facilities that have not contracted are considered “Out-of-Network.” The insured will typically save money by using “In-Network” providers and facilities.

Out of Pocket Expense: This is the amount of money that you will pay towards your medical expenses. After your Out of Pocket Maximum is met, your insurance company will pay 100% of all covered charges for the rest of the year (or plan year). Your out of pocket expense is usually in the form of a deductible, co-insurance, copay or some combination of the three.

*Forest Lane Pediatrics offers a convenient way to make payments on your child’s account, called Credit Card on File. At the time of check-in, your credit card can be electronically stored in encrypted form. After the claim for that visit has been processed, your card will be charged for any remaining charges pertaining to that visit. On all subsequent visits, you will be able to use for your card on file for copays and deductibles. You may choose to use your credit card on file or other form of payment for copay. You will be notified by email of pending charges 5 days before the charges occur, and again when the credit card is charged. If you have any questions about the charges you will have 5 days to contact our office before the credit card is charged. (Note: Your copay must be paid at time of visit)

Tips To Help Your Visit Go Smoothly:

1. New Insurance? If you have new insurance, call Forest Lane Pediatrics to update your insurance information as soon as possible, especially if your child has an upcoming appointment. This will allow our staff to verify your child’s insurance coverage prior to the appointment and minimize wait time in the office. You will also need to call your insurance company to confirm Coordination of Benefits (see # 3 below).

2. New Baby? In the first month of your baby’s life, he or she will be seeing the doctor to monitor growth and to make sure that he or she is healthy. If your newborn gets sick during the first month of his life, you will be in the doctor’s office even more. It is important to understand your insurance, and to make sure you know how to add your child to your health coverage so that there are no problems with overlapping or non-coverage. Every insurance company is different. Don’t just assume that because you are being covered by an insurance company that they automatically add your child to your plan. Your very first step should be to contact your insurance company to gain a complete understanding of the steps you will have to take. Most often, you will be required to call them within a few days of delivery to add your baby to your plan. Also, check with your human resource administrator to make sure all steps have been taken to add baby to your insurance policy. In most instances, there is a grace period of 30 days to add your baby to the coverage. This is what is referred to as automatic coverage. However, some plans do not offer automatic coverage for your baby, and in most cases, you must add baby to your plan before the automatic coverage window expires in order for any claims to be paid. If you do not add baby to the policy within the required time frame, all of baby’s medical claims will be denied by the insurance company and will be your responsibility.

(Now for the really confusing part!)

3. Do Both Parents Carry Insurance Coverage for Your Child? Most health insurance
contracts have a clause that allows the benefits of one policy to be coordinated with the
benefits of other policies. This clause, referred to as Coordination of Benefits (COB), prevents
duplicate payment of health care services. The COB rules follow guidelines established by
the National Association of Health Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
A. Children covered under more than one plan, with the parents married or living
together:
• The policy of the parent whose birthday (month and day) is earlier in the year
is primary.
• If the parents share the same birthday (month and day), the policy with the
earlier effective date is primary.

B. Children covered under more than one plan, with the parents divorced or living apart:
• The policy of the parent that the court has made responsible for health care
insurance is primary.
• The policy of the parent who has custody of the children is primary.
• If the court has not placed responsibility on one parent to insure the children and the parents have
joint custody, the policy of the parent whose birthday (month and day) is earlier in the year is
primary.
• If the parents share the same birthday (month and day), the policy with the earlier effective date is
primary.
• If you have Tricare and Commercial insurance, the Commercial insurance is always primary.

4. What does it mean to “Update the Coordination of Benefits”?  When a staff member at Forest Lane Pediatrics tells you that your child’s claim was denied due to Coordination of Benefits (COB), they will ask you to call your insurance company, update the COB and ask your insurance company to re-file the claim. This means that you need to let your insurance company know that your child is only eligible for one insurance plan, or verify which insurance is the primary insurance BEFORE THEY WILL PAY ANY CLAIMS. Please note, Forest Lane Pediatrics does NOT file claims to secondary insurance, but we are happy to give you a detailed receipt that you can file directly to secondary insurance plans.

5. When do you need to call your insurance company to update your child’s Coordination of Benefits?
A. After any request for clarification from your insurance company.
B. At the request of Forest Lane Pediatrics.
C. Any time you switch insurance plans for your child.
We recommend that you ask for a reference number any time you have a conversation with your insurance company! If at all possible, you can also request written confirmation via letter or e-mail.

Still have questions? Call us!
Dallas office (972) 284-7770
Frisco office (972) 526-0700
Mesquite office (972) 629-2250

After Hours Facilities

After Hour Urgent Care Facilities

The pediatric urgent care clinics listed below are open weekends and weekday evenings to see sick children for urgent matters.

Benefits of Urgent Care

  • Primarily staffed by pediatricians
  • Equipped to handle non-life-threatening situations
  • Fast and cost-effective alternative to the emergency department.

Comparing Urgent Care and the Emergency Department

Time: Urgent care visits average 30 minutes vs. 2 hours, 15 minutes for the Emergency Department

Cost: Urgent care visits average $50 – $150 vs. $1,233 at the emergency department.

For patients with insurance, a copayment will almost always be higher for emergency department visits than for urgent care visits.

Children’s Health PM Urgent Care

Dallas

5060 Southwestern Medical Ave
Dallas, TX 75235
Phone: 844-4CHILDRENS

Flower Mound

2650 Flower Mound Road
Flower Mound, TX 75028
Phone: 972.645.6767   Fax: 972.645.6768

McKinney

8880 State Highway 121
McKinney, TX 75070
Phone: 469.342.6767   Fax: 469.342.6769

Prosper

1300 Children’s Way
Prosper, TX 75078
Phone: 469.303.5000   Fax: 214.867.9511

The Colony

5151 State Highway 121
The Colony, TX 75056
Phone: 214.488.5437   Fax: 214.488.5438

Richardson

1291 W. Campbell Road
Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: 972.449.7677   Fax: 972.449.7678

University Park

6805 W Northwest Hwy
Dallas, TX 75225
Phone: 469.905.5437  Fax: 469.905.5439

Urgent Care for Kids

Dallas

Address:
11661 Preston Road, Suite 120
Dallas, TX 75230

Phone:
(214) 363-7242

Hours:
Weekdays: Noon – 9:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Frisco

Address:
11550 Legacy Drive, Suite 420
Frisco, TX 75034

Phone:
(972) 731-7700

Hours:
Weekdays: Noon – 9:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Garland

Address:
7150 N President George Bush Hwy, Suite 100
Garland, TX 75044

Phone:
(214) 919-3170

Hours:
Weekdays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

McKinney

Address:
1872 N. Lake Forest Drive
McKinney, TX 75071

Phone:
(214) 592-0701

Hours:
Weekdays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Plano

Address:
7212 Independence Pkwy, Suite A
Plano, TX 75025

Phone:
(972) 618-2493

Hours:
Weekdays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Weekends: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Pediatric Emergency Departments

The emergency department is meant for the following:

  • Life-threatening situations
  • Serious and sudden medical conditions
  • Trauma

If you or a loved one is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1 or find safe transportation to the emergency department near you.

Medical City Dallas Hospital
7777 Forest Lane
Dallas, TX 75230
972-566-7000

Children’s Medical Center in Dallas
1935 Medical District Drive
Dallas, TX 75235
214-456-7000

Children’s Medical Center at Legacy in Plano
7601 Preston Road
Plano, TX 75024
469-303-7000

Patient Handouts

Developmental Learning Activities

Cognitive Development

Language Development

Fine Motor Development

Gross Motor Development

Social Emotional Development

New Baby

New Baby

Congratulations on the arrival of your new baby! While this should be a joyful time, it can also be intimidating to care for a baby. You may be filled with first-time worries and wonders about newborn care, and babies do in fact have health issues that are different from older children or adults. Thankfully, many of these issues are quite innocent, and you will gain confidence quickly in your new role as a parent. The pediatricians and staff of Forest Lane Pediatrics want to guide you in this journey.

Click on the links below to learn more!

About My Baby

Breastfeeding Library

Calming a Fussy Baby

Newborn Care

Tips for Breastfeeding Success

Sleep Training

Flat Head Prevention

Patient Feedback

Review Us

We want to thank you, our valued patient, for taking the time to tell us about your visit.

Mom Approved Docs and D Magazine Best Pediatricians

The following doctors have been recognized by DFW Child Magazine as Mom Approved Doctors during their time at Forest Lane Pediatrics:

Ronald M. Blair, MD
R. Adrian Clarke, MD
Diana V. Dickschat, MD
Michelle B. Kravitz, MD
Ann J. Liu, MD
Isha Mannering, MD
Chris M. McGonnell, MD
Damien H. Mitchell, MD
Chris J. Straughn, MD
Lily H. Strong, MD

The following doctors have been recognized by D Magazine as Best Pediatricians in Dallas during their time at Forest Lane Pediatrics:

Ronald M. Blair, MD
Michelle B. Kravitz, MD
Ann J. Liu, MD
Chris M. McGonnell, MD
Damien H. Mitchell, MD
Chris Straughn, MD

Testimonials

“My son has been going there for the past 1.5 years. I interviewed Dr. Straughn when I was pregnant and really liked him. Dr. McGonnell took care of my son at Plano after birth so I decided to regularly go to him and I have been very impressed with his knowledge on medical topics and just giving advice in the early days. Most of these doctors have kids of their own so they are very familiar with the issues at hand.”
Verified Patient

“We’ve had such a fantastic experience with Dr. Straughn. He has been my daughter’s pediatrician for the past three years and has been so supportive, kind, and helpful. We’ve also seen Dr. Clarke and Dr. Kravitz for sick visits, and both were wonderful to work with. Love Forest Lane Pediatrics.”
Ashley B.

“Dr. Samara and his staff are great! When one of my children is sick, I have been able to get them in to see the doctor within hours of calling. The nursing staff are also wonderful and are available to answer questions over the phone. Very warm, caring, yet professional atmosphere. (My 2.5-year-old son also loves the fish tank in the waiting room.) Thanks for taking such great care of my kiddos Pediatric Place!”
Kate H.

“Dr. Straughn is wonderful! And his staff is always courteous and helpful. Yes, there is usually some wait time but there is always a wait when you’re seeing a doctor. I couldn’t have chosen a better doctor for my son! To Dr. Straughn and his staff… YOU ARE AN AMAZING GROUP, THANK YOU FOR ALWAYS GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR YOUR PATIENTS!
Verified Patient

“Moms and Dads out there…Look no further…This is the place you want to take your children! We adore Dr. Mitchell but all of the staff is top notch. They are caring and thorough. They are helpful and comforting. Best pediatric staff in the Metroplex. I knew I had made a great choice when all of my friends said to me, “We go there too!!” I have referred Dr. Mitchell to MANY friends and all are very very happy!!! Don’t waste time, call them today!”
Lori T.

Video Library

Forest Lane Pediatrics Video Library

Welcome to the Forest Lane Pediatrics Video Library. We hope that our videos are informative and educational. Our offices are located in Dallas, Frisco and Mesquite.

 

How to Swaddle a Baby

A wonderful video of Dr. Damien Mitchell from Forest Lane Pediatrics demonstrating the Five S’s from Dr. Harvey Karp’s “Happiest Baby” Method for Baby Sleep and Soothing. The Five S’s are:

  1. Swaddling
  2. Sucking
  3. Side lying
  4. Swaying
  5. Shooshing

 

 

Asthma Management

For more information about Asthma, visit our Asthma Management page.

 

Sleep Training

 

Car Seat Safety

COVID-19 Precautions

 

Diet and Exercise

 

Eczema

 

 

Common Rashes

 

 

Screen Time

 

COVID 19 Vaccine – PSA

 

Image Library

Image Library of Skin Rashes in Children

Skin rashes are a common occurrence for children and a frequent source of frustration for parents. This image library of common childhood rashes is intended to be a resource for parents, however the information found on this page is not intended to be diagnostic or replace the advice of a physician. For information regarding the diagnosis and treatment of a rash, please consult your pediatrician.


  • Acne

  • Chicken Pox (Varicella)

  • Cradle Cap

  • Eczema

  • Hand Foot and Mouth Disease

  • Heat Rash

  • Herpes Simplex

  • Impetigo

  • Molluscum Contagiosum

  • Ringworm

  • Unilateral Laterothoracic Syndrome

  • Urticaria (Hives)

  • Ringworm (Tinea corporis)

  • Baby Acne

  • Diaper Rash

  • Gianotti-Crosti Syndrome

  • Herpangina

  • Milia

  • Pityriasis Rosea

  • Warts

  • Roseola Infantum

  • Yeast Diaper Rash (Candida)

Office Artwork

Office Artwork

The Art of Medicine

Artwork of Ryker and a drawing by Ryker of Dr. Blair

Forest Lane Pediatrics Presents a Special Series of original art by a local artist and our patients.

There is nothing in the world more beautiful than a child’s smiling face and nothing more captivating than a child’s imagination. Through a partnership with a local artist Forest Lane Pediatrics displays both through the halls of its Dallas, Plano and Mesquite offices. We commissioned a local artist to sketch portraits of 24 (12 in Dallas and 12 in Plano) of Forest Lane’s patients. The patients then sketched a portrait of their doctor and both pieces of art are displayed together in the halls of each office. The juxtaposition of beauty and whimsy is truly captivating and worth your time the next time you visit either office.

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Web Resources

Web Resources for Parents

Here are some helpful web resource links for our parents:

After Hours Clinics

Children’s Health PM
Urgent Care for Kids

General Pediatrics

American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org)
CDC Traveler’s Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Home Page
Kid’s Health
Use and Care of Home Humidifiers

Expecting Parents

Prenatal Articles
Cord Blood Registry
Pediatrix Supplemental Newborn Screening
Viacord Cord Blood Preservation

Breastfeeding

Tips for Successful Breastfeeding
Dallas Area Breastfeeding Alliance
KellyMom.com

Vaccinations

National Network for Immunization Information
CDC Vaccine Home Page
CDC Vaccine Info for Parents
Vaccine Education Center – Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
Childhood Immunization Support Group Home Page
CISP – Why Immunize?
Every Child By Two

Nutrition

Culturelle — Lactobacillus dietary supplement
Environmental Protection Agency: Guidelines for safe consumption of fish and shellfish
Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network
Keep Kids Healthy
Kids Eat Great

Child Development

Early Childhood Intervention
Child Development

Child Care

National Association for the Education of Young Children
Texas Child Care Search

Common Concerns

FlavoRx – We make medicine a lot less yucky!
Kids Growth
The Baby Corner

General Health Information

Mayo Clinic
National Institutes of Health
Web MD

Safety/Car Seats

Car Seats for the Littles
NHTSA Child Passenger Safety Program
Seat Check

Special Needs

Dallas Services S.N.A.A.P.
Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas
Exceptional Parent Magazine
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital

West Nile Virus/Mosquito Bites

Centers for Control: Fight the Bite!

Friends of Forest Lane Pediatrics

Frisco Women’s Health
Frisco OB-GYN: Dr. Jonathan Weinstein, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology in the Frisco area.
Plastiks for Kids: Dr. Christine Stiles is a Plastic Surgeon for children who has offices in Plano & Frisco
Blue Fish Pediatrics: A Pediatric practice in Houston, TX

Coupons

Internet Drug Coupons

Fun Stuff

PBS Website
Starfall Early Reading Website

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading for Parenting

Recommended Reading for Parenting from Forest Lane Pediatrics

A Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome: Toward a Brighter Future, Revised Edition
Siegfried M. Pueschell M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H.

Babies with Down Syndrome. A New Parents’ Guide. Second Edition
Karen Stray-Gundersen

Caring for Your Adolescent Ages 12 to 21
Donald E. Greydanus, M.D., F.A.A.P.

CARING FOR YOUR BABY AND YOUNG CHILD BIRTH TO AGE 5
Steven P. Shelov, M.D.,

Caring for Your School Age Child: Ages 5-12 (Child Care)
Edward L Schor, M.D., F.A.A.P., Editor in Chief

Gross Motor Skills in Children With Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals (Topics in Down Syndrome)
Patricia C. Winders, P.T.

Guide to Your Child’s Nutrition
William H. Dietz, M.D., PH.D., and Loraine Stern MD

Guide to Your Child’s Symptoms
Donald Schiff, M.D. and Steven P Shelov, M.D.

Mom’s Guide to Your Kid’s Nutrition (Mom’s Guides)
Vicki Poretta and Marcela Kogan

New Mother’s Guide To Breastfeeding
Joan Younger Meek, MD, MS, RD, FAAP and S. Tippins

On Becoming Baby Wise: Giving Your Infant the Gift of Nighttime Sleep
Robert Bucknam, MD and Gary Ezzo

Parenting With Love and Logic
Foster Cline and Jim Fay

The First Twelve Months of Life: Your Baby’s Growth Month by Month
Frank Caplin

The Happiest Baby on the Block; Fully Revised and Updated Second Edition: The New Way to Calm Crying and Help Your Newborn Sleep Longer
Harvey Karp, MD

Your Child’s Health: The Parents’ One-Stop Reference Guide to: Symptoms, Emergencies, Common Illnesses, Behavior Problems, and Healthy Development
Barton D. Schmitt, M.D.

Here are some helpful web resource links for our parents

Office Protocol

Office Protocol

Forest Lane Pediatrics would like to welcome you to our pediatric office. The office protocol information below outlines how our practice operates. If you have any questions about these policies, please do not hesitate to ask.

We have provided sick and well waiting areas for your convenience. If you come to the office with more than one child and one of your children is sick then you must report to the sick waiting room. Children who are here for a well exam, recheck or follow-up exam from a previous illness may present to the well waiting room. Thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter.

Immunization Policy

Our physicians believe that all children should be fully immunized unless there are medical contraindications. Therefore, you will need to bring a copy of your child’s immunization records to the first visit in order to be seen. We are unable to accept new patients/families unless they are willing to fully comply with the recommended timetable for vaccine administration per the American Academy of Pediatrics. We believe this policy advocates for children and their best interest.

Automated Phone System

Our office uses an automated phone system to help direct telephone traffic. Please note the prompts as you listen to the system. Phones will be turned on at 7:00 A.M. and turned over to the answering service at 4:30 P.M on weekdays. On Saturdays, the phones will be on from 7:30 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. A few notes about the phone system:

  1. Phone messages are prioritized according to urgency.
  2. Appointments requiring an exam that day will be answered as soon as possible.
  3. Non-urgent calls will be answered within 2-3 hours.
  4. Lengthy calls, such as: Feeding, sleeping, or behavioral questions will be answered by the end of the day.
  5. The referral line will be checked daily – you are responsible to know if you need a referral to see a specialist. Please call the referral line 72 hours in advance of the needed referral.
  6. Medical record requests left on the phone system will be answered daily. Please allow 3 business days to produce the records. The records can be shared via mail, fax, or in-person pickup. We will not send out any records without a signed records release form.
  7. If your regular doctor is busy or out of the office and your child is sick and needs an urgent appointment, he or she may need to see a different doctor. All well exams will be scheduled with your regular physician.

Medication Refill Requests

Please be aware it may take up to 3 business days for your doctor to complete a medication refill request. ADHD medications are commonly out of stock or back ordered. To ease the process of getting an ADHD medication refilled in a timely manner, we recommend the following:

  • Contact your pharmacy a week before your child will be out of medication to see if they have the medication in stock, or if they are able to order it if it is not currently in stock.
  • If they do not have the medication and cannot order it, call other pharmacies near you to locate one that has the medication.
  • Contact our office to request the medication refill and provide the pharmacy information for where the refill should be sent.
  • If you are unable to locate a pharmacy that has the medication in stock, then the doctor may need to recommend a different medication. Please ask your preferred pharmacy what medications and strengths they do have in stock so the doctor will have options to review that are available.

Email Policy

E-mail questions submitted via the Patient Portal will be answered by the following business day. We ask that only the Patient Portal be used for electronic communication with our office in regards to medical information about your child. Communication through the Patient Portal is encrypted, and therefore protected against hacking. E-mail communication directly through the website is not encrypted and should only be used for communication that does not contain any personal or medical information. We will ask you to fill out an e-mail policy form that states what will be addressed via e-mail response in order to comply with HIPPA regulations.

After Hour Calls

After hours calls are addressed by a pediatric nurse. The nurse will be happy to answer any questions and give advice regarding the care of your child, but the nurse will not have access to your child’s chart and can’t prescribe any medications or authorize any refills. A doctor from Forest Lane Pediatrics is always on call and available to the after hours nurse if the nurse needs assistance in caring for your child.

Late Policy

If you are more than 15 minutes late for your appointment, you may be asked to reschedule for a later date. If your child is sick, you may wait in the office and be worked in between patients. Please note there will be an extended wait time if you are late for your appointment.

Same Day Appointments

We will attempt to accommodate all same day sick visits requested before 3 pm, however, we can’t guarantee availability.

Forms

Various forms and letters are often lengthy and may take extra time to be filled out. Forms will be returned as quickly as possible. There will be a $15.00 charge for letters or forms needing more than a signature. Please allow up to 3 business days for forms or letters to be completed by our office.

Medical Records

There will be a $6.50 charge for copying of your child’s chart or transferring your child’s chart to another physician.

Appointment No Show Policy

Failure to cancel your appointment within 24 hours notice will result in a $25.00 charge. This charge must be paid prior to scheduling your child’s next appointment.

Divorced/Separated Parents Policy

See policy for the full details.

Please be aware that failure to comply with any of our office protocols may result in dismissal from the practice. Office protocols will be updated as needed to better serve our patients and their families. Thank You,

Forest Lane Pediatrics of Dallas, Frisco, and Mesquite

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Our list of Frequently Asked Office Questions should answer many of your general questions about our practice at Forest Lane Pediatrics of Dallas, Frisco, and Mesquite. Please contact us if you have additional questions or to make an appointment

After Hours Tip Sheet

After Hours Tip Sheet

This sheet has been designed to help you with questions, which may arise when our office is closed, and to help distinguish between what is an urgent and non-urgent medical problem with your child. Our doctors are always available for urgent questions. However, please respect the doctor’s family life and hold non-urgent calls for business hours; your consideration is greatly appreciated.

To schedule an appointment, call during business hours.

Review this information before calling the doctor to determine if a call is required. For advice related to issues not covered in this handout, visit the “Children’s Health Library” link on our website. Also, check the availability of an insurance company operated after hours triage service. This number may be found on the back of your insurance card. The following information is divided into topics based on symptoms.

Important resources:

Website: www.healthychildren.org

Poison Control 800.222.1222

FEVER

Fever is a normal response by your body to various causes (i.e., infections, vaccines). Fever can make a child feel uncomfortable, but it can be beneficial; fever helps the body fight infection, turns on the body’s immune system, and may help shorten the course of the illness. Our group defines fever in a child older than 3 months as a temperature ≥ 101ºF. There are many ways to take temperature including under the arm (axillary), rectally, orally, in the ear, or with a temporal scanner. Keep track of your child’s actual temperature and how you take the temperature. If your child has a fever, we recommend treating the fever only if the child is uncomfortable. In most cases the anti-fever medicine (i.e., ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) and acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Feverall®) will only bring the child’s temperature down 1º-2º degrees. For example, if your child has a 104ºF temperature, we expect the fever to drop to 102º-103ºF with medication. As an adjunct to fever reducers, you can give your child a tepid (water temperature of 85º-90ºF) bath. In certain circumstances, fever can be a sign of a more serious illness. Notify the on-call physician of your child’s fever if it meets one of the criteria listed below.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child is younger than 3 months with a rectal temperature >100.4ºF
  • If your child has a very high fever (>104ºF)
  • If your child is inconsolable or unresponsive despite giving an adequate dose of a fever reducer

Fever reducers are only designed to make your child more comfortable. It will NOT stop your child from having a fever.

On average, fever reducers take up to one hour to work. Acetaminophen can last as long as 4-6 hours and can be safely given at any age. Ibuprofen can last as long as 6-8 hours and can be safely given to children ≥ 6 months of age.

With over-the-counter cold medicines, avoid preparations, which also contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen in order to minimize the chance of overdosing on a fever-reducing agent.

IMMUNIZATION REACTIONS

When your child receives vaccines, it is quite common for him/her to have fever, discomfort, swelling and redness around the injection site. For more information about shot reactions, consult the vaccine handout you received in the office.

In most cases shot reactions are not emergencies.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child is unresponsive or has a fever >105ºF after the immunization
  • If the immunization site is very swollen, greater than 3 inches in size, or has a red streak running from the injection site

PRESCRIPTIONS AND ANTIBIOTICS

In the best interest of a sick child, an examination should always be done first before any medication, if warranted, is prescribed. If you are concerned about your child’s illness and think your child cannot wait until the morning to be evaluated, take your child to an emergency room or urgent care center. Should issues arise with a refill request, please call during regular business hours when we are best able to handle these requests.

VOMITING

There are many illnesses that will cause vomiting and/or diarrhea. These illnesses are commonly referred to as viral gastroenteritis. In most cases, children do not need to be seen immediately for these symptoms. The most important thing you can do is keep your child hydrated. The best way to keep small children (< 3 years old) hydrated is with an oral rehydration liquid (i.e., Pedialyte®). Older children can take water, flat ginger ale, or Gatorade®. Avoid red or green colored drinks for it may artificially make the vomit appear to be bloodstained or bile-stained. Also avoid drinks high in sugar such as apple juice. If your child has begun to vomit, let him/her rest for 1-2 hours to allow the stomach to settle then start with small sips of liquids (i.e., 5cc every 5 minutes for 1-2 hours). Some children will continue to vomit but in most cases the frequent small amount of liquid will keep them hydrated.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child is unable to keep liquids down for several hours (6 hours for infants or 12 hours for older children)
  • If your child is having severe pain in his/her stomach with vomiting
  • If the vomit has blood or is green in color

If your child is unresponsive or appears very dehydrated (sunken eyes, not urinating for > 8 to 12 hours, and if your child is > 1 year old)

DIARRHEA

As with vomiting, diarrhea is most often caused by a viral gastroenteritis. The key is to keep your child hydrated with water. Avoid juices (especially apple, pear, or prune juice) or any drinks high in sugar for these types of drinks can worsen diarrhea. For formula-fed infants, continue normal feeds. In older children (> 1 year old), give more starchy foods (rice, bread, plain pasta). In most cases, diarrhea is not an emergency and can be addressed during office hours.

We do not recommend any medication to stop diarrhea. Such medications may prolong the illness.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child is having bloody stools
  • If your child is unresponsive or appears very dehydrated (sunken eyes, not urinating for > 8 to 12 hours, and if your child is > 1 year old)

COUGH

A cough is a normal response to most upper respiratory infections. With a few exceptions, you can treat your child at home. Please refer to our website for more information. Medication, if warranted, will be prescribed after your child has been evaluated.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child is having trouble breathing or is breathing rapidly
  • If your child has asthma or reactive airway disease and his/her breathing is not responding to breathing treatments given every four hours

NASAL CONGESTION

As with a cough, children may suffer from nasal congestion or a runny nose with colds. Nasal congestion is not an emergency. Visit our website for more information.

EARACHE AND SORE THROAT

In general, both earaches and sore throats are not emergencies but may need to be seen in the morning. Antibiotics, if warranted, will be prescribed after your child has been evaluated. If you feel that your child cannot wait until the morning to be seen, then take him/her to an urgent care center. In the meantime, pain relievers and warm compresses may provide comfort. For an older child with a sore throat, try having him/her gargle with a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water for temporary relief.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child’s sore throat includes other symptoms: excessive drooling, severe difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, or being unable to open his/her mouth fully.
  • If your child’s earache includes other symptoms: stiff neck, loss of balance when walking, or redness and swelling behind one ear in comparison to the other ear.

RASH

In most cases, rash or unusual skin changes are not emergencies and cannot be diagnosed over the phone. If you are concerned about a rash, please call during regular office hours. If your child has recently started a medicine and develops a rash, stop the medication and call our office in the morning.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child is inconsolable or unresponsive or with a high fever (>104ºF) and also has a new rash. This situation is considered an emergency. We recommend that your child be seen immediately in an emergency room or urgent care facility
  • If the rash is purple/blood-colored spots, or bright red and tender to touch, or red streaks that is spreading, or appears like a burn
  • If the rash is associated with swollen lips, swollen tongue, difficulty breathing, or abdominal pain, go to the emergency room, as this may be a severe allergic reaction

PINK EYE

Conjunctivitis is commonly referred to as pink eye. Pink eye does not require immediate therapy in most cases. If your child has developed redness in the eye or discharge from the eye, please call our office during business hours. Until your child is seen, you can treat the eye with warm compresses or artificial tear drops (available at most drug stores). The teardrops can be used as often as needed to irrigate away the discharge. Remember, conjunctivitis may be contagious, so wash your hands after caring for your child. Medication, if warranted, will be prescribed after your child has been examined.

When to call the on-call doctor:

  • If your child sustained trauma to the eye
  • If your child is unable to see from the eye or complaining of severe pain
  • If your child cannot open his/her eye because of eyelid swelling, wipe away any discharge with a warm washcloth to help the eye open

ACCIDENTAL INGESTIONS

Please call the poison control number 800.222.1222 for all accidental ingestions. They are best equipped to answer all your questions.

INJURIES

Please refer to our website for further information. In general, if your child sustained a severe injury, you will need to bring him/her to an emergency room or urgent care center. A diagnosis can only be made after an evaluation of your child. The on-call doctor in most cases will only be able to give recommendations as to whether your child needs to be seen immediately or if it can be addressed during our regular hours.

CONSTIPATION

Constipation is not an emergency and can be addressed during office hours. To minimize the occurrence of constipation, provide a well balanced diet to your child and make certain your child is well hydrated.

– Again, this sheet is just an aid for you after hours. If you are still uncomfortable in managing your child’s illness after hours after reviewing this information, please call us. —

PEDIATRIC EMERGENCY ROOMS

Medical City Dallas Hospital (972-566-7000)
7777 Forest Lane
Dallas, TX 75230

Children’s Medical Center in Dallas
1935 Medical District Drive
Dallas, TX 75235
214-456-7000

Children’s Medical Center at Legacy in Plano
7601 Preston Road
Plano, TX 75024
469-303-7000

Children’s Health Library

Children’s Health Library

Find age appropriate medical articles and videos, pediatric advice, health information handouts and recent news for parents, kids, and teens.

Articles From Our Pediatricians

Our pediatricians from Forest Lane Pediatrics post the latest pediatric health information.

Breastfeeding Library

A list of breastfeeding articles that can be downloaded and printed.

Illness and Disorders

Pediatric advice and children’s health information handouts.

Allergy Library

Read about the causes and treatments for allergies.

Medicine Dosage Charts for Children

Lists recommended dosages for over the counter (OTR) medications.
Tylenol® (Acetaminophen) and Motrin® (Ibuprofen) Drug Dosage Chart
If you are unsure about a dosage or have any further questions, please contact us.

Ages and Stages

Ages and Stages Developmental Screen at all well visits for children ages 2 months through 3 years.

Behavioral Issues in Children

ADHD Assessment

Vaccine Preventable Diseases

Vaccines are available to immunize children for the following vaccine-preventable diseases.

Safety and Prevention

Fitness and Exercise

Children not only enjoy the health benefits of regular exercise, kids who are physically fit sleep better and are better able to handle physical and emotional challenges.

Nutrition

Good nutrition is essential to good health and the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to think of their nutritional decisions as health decisions.

Emotional Health

Helping your child deal with the death of a loved one.

Oral Health

Healthy mouth and teeth are an important part of a child’s wellness.
Read about cavity prevention in children with our Fluoride Varnish Dental Treatments.

Pediatric Illnesses and Disorders

Pediatric Illnesses and Disorders

Forest Lane Pediatrics has provided convenient children’s health information handouts on Pediatric Illnesses and Disorders. Please click on the illness or disorder listed below for more information, as well as a printable copy you can download.

Vaccine Safety

Where did fear of vaccines come from?

We understand and appreciate the anxiety that many parents feel about vaccines. We are parents too and we also stress about making sure we are doing the best thing for our children. Regarding the fear of vaccines, scientific study has overwhelmingly shown that vaccines are effective, safe, and not related in any way to autism or other developmental disorders. The concern about vaccines and the possible relationship to autism began in 1998 when a British physician named Andrew Wakefield published a paper in the journal, Lancet; in which he hypothesized that the Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine was the cause of autism in 12 patients he studied. As with all things in science and medicine, one study or paper does not confirm a theory so Wakefield’s hypothesis was tested and scrutinized by other scientists.

The idea that the MMR vaccine is associated with autism has proved false.

All subsequent study and research into the idea that the MMR vaccine is linked or associated with autism has proved his hypothesis false. In fact, the Lancet retracted his paper in 2010 due to the overwhelming evidence disproving his theory and the discovery that he had been paid by a law firm that intended to sue vaccine manufacturers – a conflict of interest he failed to disclose. Further research into his paper and methodology revealed that his “evidence” linking the MMR vaccine to autism was not just bad science, but outright fraud.

An investigation concluded that Wakefield altered the medical histories.

An investigation published by the British Journal of Medicine (BMJ) in 2011 concluded that Wakefield altered or misrepresented the medical histories of all 12 patients whose cases were the foundation of his claim that the MMR vaccine caused autism. In their publication, the BJM wrote, “Who perpetrated this fraud? There is no doubt that it was Wakefield. Is it possible that he was wrong, but not dishonest: that he was so incompetent that he was unable to fairly describe the project, or to report even one of the 12 children’s cases accurately? No. A great deal of thought and effort must have gone into drafting the paper to achieve the results he wanted: the discrepancies all led in one direction; misreporting was gross.”

Fraud was discovered, but the damage was done.

Andrew Wakefield’s medical license was revoked once his fraud was discovered, but the damage from his papers and crusade against vaccines was already done. Despite mountains of scientific evidence, concern and fear about vaccines still persist.

Measles virus was officially eradicated in the United States in 2000, but due to pockets of unvaccinated persons, outbreaks continue to happen.

In 2014, 667 people contracted Measles in the United States, the greatest number of cases since the disease was eliminated in 2000. The good news is that the majority of people in the US do vaccinate, and as a result we often measure outbreaks in the hundreds and not in the thousands (whooping cough being an exception with more than 48,000 cases reported in 2012) so we rarely hear of or encounter the deadly diseases vaccines protect us against. Hopefully with increasing education about the safety of vaccines we will see vaccine rates rise and the number of outbreaks fall.

Read more about how Andrew Wakefield’s false claims created the vaccine-autism myth.

For more information about all things related to vaccines, check out the video series from the American Academy of Pediatrics titled, The Complete Guide to Childhood Immunizations.

For more information about Vaccines, visit the Vaccine Education Center at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Immunization Schedule

Immunization Policy

We believe that all children should be fully immunized per the vaccine schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC), unless there are medical contraindications. We are unable to accept new patients/families unless they are willing to fully comply with Forest Lane Pediatrics’ vaccination schedule. We believe this policy advocates for children and their best interest, as well as protects our patients who are too young to be vaccinated. If you are transferring from another practice, you will be required to submit a copy of your child’s immunization record prior to scheduling your child’s first visit.

Read about where the fear of vaccines come from?

Click here for The Complete Guide to Childhood Immunizations course from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Forest Lane Pediatrics Vaccine and Immunization Schedule

Due to cost differences of vaccines in different cities, the Dallas, Plano and Mesquite offices follow slightly different vaccine schedules, however, both follow the guidelines set by the AAP.

Birth – 2 weeks

  • Hep B #1 – Vaccine against Hepatitis B

2 months

  • Pediarix
    • DTaP #1 – Vaccine against Diptheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough
    • IPV #1 – Vaccine against Polio
    • Hep B #2 – Vaccine against Hepatitis B
  • HIB #1 – Vaccine against Haemophilus influenza type B, a bacteria that can cause pneumonia, ear infections, and meningitis
  • PCV #1 – Vaccine against Pneumococcus, a bacteria that cause pneumonia and ear infections
  • Rotarix #1 – Vaccine against Rotavirus, a virus that causes severe
    diarrhea

4 months

  • Pediarix
    • DTaP #2 – Vaccine against Diptheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough
    • IPV #2 – Vaccine against Polio
    • Hep B #3 – Vaccine against Hepatitis B
  • HIB #2 – Vaccine against Haemophilus influenza type B
  • PCV #2 – Vaccine against Pneumococcus
  • Rotarix #2 – Vaccine against Rotavirus

6 months

  • Pediarix
    • DTaP #3 – Vaccine against Diptheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough
    • IPV #3 – Vaccine against Polio
    • Hep B #4 – Vaccine against Hepatitis B virus
  • HIB # 3 – Vaccine against Haemophilus influenza type B
  • PCV #3 – Vaccine against Pneumococcus

9 months

  • No Shots

12 months

  • MMR #1 – Vaccine against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
  • Varicella #1 – Vaccine against Chickenpox
  • PCV #4 – Vaccine against Pneumococcus

15 months

  • DTaP #4 – Vaccine against Diptheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough
  • HIB #4 – Vaccine against Haemophilus influenza type B
  • Hep A #1 – Vaccine against Hepatitis A

18 months

  • No shots

24 months

  • Hep A #2 – Vaccine against Hepatitis A

30 months

  • No shots

36 months

  • No shots

48 months

  • MMRV
    • MMR #2 – Vaccine against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
    • Varicella #2 – Vaccine against Chickenpox
  • Kinrix
    • DTaP #5 – Vaccine against Diptheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough
    • IPV #4 – Vaccine against Polio

11 years

  • MCV4 – Vaccine against the strains A,C,W and Y of meningococcal bacteria that cause meningitis.
  • TDaP – Booster vaccine against Tetanus and Whooping Cough
  • HPV #1 – Vaccine that protects against Human papillomavirus, a virus that causes cervical cancer, penile cancer, and genital warts.

12 years

  • HPV #2 – Vaccine that protects against Human papillomavirus, a virus that causes cervical cancer, penile cancer, and genital warts.

16 – 18 years

  • MCV4 – Booster vaccine against the strains A,C,W and Y of meningococcal bacteria that cause meningitis.
  • Bexsero – 2 dose vaccine series with doses at least 1 month apart against strain B of meningococcal bacteria that causes meningitis.