This week, Laura and Todd sit down with Dr. Wendy Hunter, a pediatrician, who discusses the impact of social determinants of health on pediatric care and the importance of trauma-informed care. She shares her personal experience with Lyme disease and how it has influenced her empathy towards patients. Dr. Hunter emphasizes the need for accessible health information for parents and addresses common concerns such as eczema, constipation, and bedtime anxiety. She also highlights the importance of self-care and having a supportive caregiver for children. Dr. Hunter discusses the role of adverse childhood experiences in long-term health outcomes and the need for trauma-based therapy. She encourages parents to advocate for their children's health and well-being and offers advice for managing parental anxiety.

Key Takeaways:

• Adverse childhood experiences can have long-term effects on a child's health and well-being.
• Trauma-informed care is essential in pediatric medicine to address the social determinants of health and provide support to children and families.
• Parents should prioritize self-care and seek support from friends, family, and healthcare professionals when feeling overwhelmed or anxious about their child's health.
• Open and honest communication is crucial in addressing children's health concerns and providing appropriate care.

Links:

• "The Pediatrician Next Door" podcast: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-pediatrician-next-door-107345953/#:~:text=Pediatrician%20Wendy%20Hunter%2C%20MD%20answers,to%20questions%20about%20kids'%20health.

• ACE screening: https://americanspcc.org/take-the-aces-quiz/?gclid=CjwKCAjw9-6oBhBaEiwAHv1QvFD-Y1tovc_fnZ6DS88qSJfSNBZMmhSb1_h4RUQEtLYn7TJSoEUkLxoCq-IQAvD_BwE

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