Cheryl A Manning, MD, FAAP

4139 Hospital Drive, Covington, GA 30014

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Call (770) 786-0012

FAX: (770) 786-9988

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we are asked.  If you have a question not answered below, please feel free to contact our office.  

Q: At what age should my child begin seeing a pediatrician?
 
A: We encourage expectant parents to visit our office before your baby is born.  This allows you to get acquainted with our doctor and staff before your baby needs us.  During this prenatal visit, we will answer any questions that you may have about our practice and we can go over what to expect once your bundle of joy arrives.   

Q: How often should my child see the pediatrician?

A: You should schedule an appointment right away when your child is not feeling well or is running a fever. In addition, your child should receive regular "well-child" check-ups.  Well-child check-ups are considered part of preventative pediatric care.  Those appointments, which are more frequent during infancy and early childhood, are routine examinations that permit the doctor to observe the progress of your child's overall development and well-being.  A well-child check-up may include a physical examination of your child, certain screening tests, such as vision or hearing; vaccinations, monitoring your child's weight and height, answering any questions, and getting to know you and your child.   

We ask that our patients schedule well-child visits per the schedule below, which is recommended by The Academy of Pediatrics. 

  • 3 to 5 days
  • 1 month
  • 2 months
  • 4 months
  • 6 months
  • 9 months
  • 12 months
  • 15 months
  • 18 months
  • 24 months
  • 30 months
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • And once every year thereafter for an annual health supervision visit that includes a physical exam as well as a developmental, behavioral, and learning assessment.

Q: How do I schedule an appointment for my child?  

A: If your child is ill or needs same day attention, please call our office to schedule an appointment. For routine appointments or well appointments, you may call our office during regular office hours or request an appointment online.  If your child is experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911.

Q: Does my child really need vaccinations?
 
A: Yes.  Vaccinations are a series of shots that are given to children to help prevent serious and sometimes fatal childhood diseases.  For more information about vaccinations, please see our Immunizations section under Patient Information tab.  If you have any reservations or concerns about vaccinations, please bring those to the attention of the doctor.     
 
Q.  Should my child receive the flu shot?
 
A.  Yes.  Influenza, also known as the flu, is a serious and sometimes fatal disease for people with weakened or under-developed immune systems, including children. We recommend that children as young as 6 months of age receive the flu vaccination yearly, especially those in daycare.  In addition, we recommend that all school-age child receive a yearly vaccination.