Interview with Dr. Priya Sharma
How do you build relationships with parents?
A lot of what goes into making parents feel comfortable is just answering their questions and providing a lot of resources. As a pediatrician, I think one of our roles is to help guide parents and see what works best for them and to help them feel more comfortable and more confident as a parent while making sure of the child’s safety and health.
I have a daughter and a son. Being a parent helps me see things from a parent’s perspective as opposed to from just the doctor’s perspective. We don’t overbook our schedule, so we have more time to get to know our families: what they do, where they live, and about their lives.
What is your approach when a patient comes to you with a concern?
We encourage parents to bring their list of questions to their visit. I always tell them that there’s no such thing as a dumb question and that we’ve pretty much-heard everything. That’s what we are here for. It is sometimes tough for parents because they get so many mixed messages from different media.
What are your areas of particular clinical interest?
I am interested in dermatology and skin care. I enjoy the dramatic differences we can make by treating a child with conditions like eczema. Providing them with proper treatment can really improve their overall quality of life, which can be very rewarding. If additional therapy is needed, we have great access to many talented specialists.
What do you like about Northwestern Children’s Practice?
One of my favorite things about our practice is the camaraderie among the staff. The providers are often getting opinions or asking advice from each other. We also value the nurses’ opinions.
What’s your approach to fostering good habits in children?
A large part of what we do as pediatricians is guidance, especially as far as the daily things like feeding, sleeping, and potty training go. We also address social issues like making sure screen time is limited and that children are getting enough activity or exercise. We’re big proponents of education in our practice. We’re here to be an advocate for the child but also to support the family as far as building their parenting skills.
What is a typical first visit like with a patient?
Many times a newborn, pediatric visit will be the family’s first since leaving the hospital. We answer basic questions and offer reassurance now that parents have had time to breathe.
On that first visit, one of the biggest things is making sure that feeding is going well. For example, breastfeeding is very stressful at first, and we let parents know that this is normal. One of the best benefits of our practice is that we have lactation consultants in our office.
How do you assess developmental milestones in infants and toddlers?
There’s definitely a range for social, growth, motor, and fine motor skills, so we discuss with patients what’s appropriate and what’s not. If there’s something that we need to keep a closer eye on, we may have them come back for a follow-up visit or refer them to the appropriate specialist.
How do you build relationships with children?
A great thing about being a pediatrician is that kids get to know you. I’ve had kids at 18 months old say hi to me by name.
There’s definitely anxiety and fear with going to the doctor’s office, but having the child sit with the parents and giving them a little time helps. I’ll have them sit in the parent’s lap, or try to engage them. Kids need a few minutes to acclimate to the new environment, to see that everything is okay and that everyone is happy and smiling. There’s a lot you can tell just by seeing the child interact with the parent in the room, and observing them talking, pointing at things, or giggling.
One of the best things, especially now that I have been with the practice for 20+ years, is that you really get to know the families and you get to see the kids grow up.
How do you handle a typical adolescent visit?
Usually after age fourteen, we like to do part of the visit with the parents there and then part of it with the adolescents by themselves. This gives a chance to ask questions that they may not feel comfortable talking about in front of their parents or other siblings. Also, it helps them to learn more about taking responsibility for their own health and medical history. Shortly, they may be off on their own and will need to feel comfortable being in a doctor’s office by themselves.
Can you talk a bit about your personal life and background?
I’ve been in the Chicagoland area my whole life. I was born in Joliet, Illinois, and went to college and medical school at Northwestern. I’m a Chicago sports fan: a big Chicago Cubs fan, but also a Blackhawks and Bulls fan. Because I love food, I enjoy dining out and cooking—especially trying interesting new dishes and experimenting. I also love to travel.
What is your practice philosophy?
Our goal is to educate parents to help them raise healthy and loving children. We care for families from infancy through young adulthood, and we develop ongoing relationships with our families to provide personalized service and comprehensive care. We advocate for our families’ health through outreach, education, and involvement in the community.
What resources does the practice offer?
New parents support group
Brown bag series of lunch chats about family health and wellness
Several lactation consultants available during routine well visits and for special consults
Educational materials (many of which we have authored ourselves)
Referrals to specialists at a variety of hospitals across Chicago
How do you handle sick visits and after-hour requests?
We have a walk-in clinic seven days a week. Parents can also call for a same day sick appointment. We refer parents to affiliated hospital-based clinics after hours. We also have an after-hours system, so parents know that someone will be available around the clock. In that way, we are available 24/7.
What is your practice policy on vaccines?
We understand that parents often have questions about vaccines, and as pediatricians, we are here as a resource to provide education and outreach to families on the topic of vaccines. We strongly support the vaccine schedule of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC. Ultimately, we do not allow alternative vaccination schedules in our practice.