What is the role of the paediatrician?

A paediatrician is a specialist doctor who looks after babies and children. They are often involved, particularly early on, when there are concerns a child may have an impairment or disability.

A paediatrician is able to refer for further medical investigations and diagnosis.  They are able to direct children to other paediatric specialists eg therapists, psychologists and specialist nursing services as needed.

Paediatricians can work a variety of places such as hospitals, community clinics and special schools.


No – a paediatrician will generally see children until the age of 16, however some paediatric services see children until they turn 18.