Introduction
Nephrology is the medical field that studies the role and functions of the kidneys in health and disease. The kidneys perform a number of important body functions, including the removal of waste materials from the blood, maintaining essential body fluid and mineral balances, regulating blood pressure, stimulating blood cell production, and contributing to normal bone growth and strength. Because of these multiple functions, different diseases of the kidneys affect health in a number of different ways. A Pediatric Nephrologist (.pdf) is a physician with certifications in both Pediatrics and Nephrology, and therefore has expertise in the evaluation and treatment of infants, children, and adolescents with medical disorders of the kidneys, urinary system, and related conditions. Pediatric Nephrology at Geisinger
The Division of Pediatric Nephrology at Geisinger Medical Center and the Janet Weis Children’s Hospital provides expert regional subspecialty services for the evaluation and, when necessary, treatment of the mildest to most severe medical problems, including suspected or proven congenital or acquired diseases of the kidney, all types of hypertension (high blood pressure), chronic kidney failure, and problems with bladder control. In addition to our board-certified pediatric nephrologists, the Division’s exceptional clinical staff includes highly qualified physician assistant and nurse practitioner providers, pediatric and dialysis nurses, as well as providers of pediatric social work, physical therapy, and specialized dietary/nutrition services. The Division of Pediatric Nephrology is committed to provide the most advanced subspecialty services for infants, children, and adolescents in a kind, secure, and supportive setting through our subspecialty clinics, special programs and Geisinger’s Janet Weis Children’s Hospital. We emphasize an outpatient treatment approach whenever possible. We encourage families and patients to be well-informed and to take active roles in decision making. We strive to maintain mutual trust and respect in our relationships with our patients and their families.
Because of the stresses and time demands often experienced by families of patients with complex or multiple medical care needs, we always make efforts to coordinate and work in close partnership with the primary care and other pediatric subspecialty care providers. |
