What is a neuropediatrician?
A neuropediatrician is a pediatrician who has completed advanced training in pediatric neurology. During a yearlong fellowship at UCSF's Pediatric Brain Center, these doctors develop expertise in evaluating and managing common neurological conditions in children. Their training includes direct patient care; mentorship by child neurologists; and hands-on experience with performing neurological exams, interpreting imaging studies and carrying out developmental assessments. With both clinical skills and a compassionate approach to care, neuropediatricians are uniquely positioned to guide families through concerns with disorders involving the nervous system.
What is the difference between a pediatric neurologist and a neuropediatrician?
Pediatric neurologist. This doctor has completed a residency in child neurology, often over several years, and is board-certified in neurology with special training in child neurology.
Neuropediatrician. This is a general pediatrician who has completed a focused one-year fellowship in pediatric neurology. While neuropediatricians do not replace pediatric neurologists, they are trained to diagnose and manage many common neurological conditions and collaborate closely with pediatric neurologists when additional expertise or testing is needed.
What conditions do they treat?
Neuropediatricians evaluate and manage a range of common neurological conditions in children, including:
- Concussions
- Developmental delays
- Migraines and other headaches
- Seizures
- Tics
They can also determine whether a child needs highly specialized care from a pediatric neurologist.
This is an innovative role within our Pediatric Brain Center, designed to increase access to neurological expertise for families. The addition of neuropediatricians allows for earlier evaluation, streamlined care, and closer collaboration between general pediatrics and pediatric neurology. The program started in 2024.
How do I know whether my child could see a neuropediatrician versus needing a pediatric neurologist?
A neuropediatrician is an excellent first point of contact if your child has a common neurological problem, such as headaches, a tic, developmental concerns, or a first-time seizure. A neuropediatrician can evaluate the issue and determine whether further testing or referral to a pediatric neurologist is warranted. For complex, rare or difficult-to-treat neurological conditions, or if your child already has a neurologist, continued care with a pediatric neurologist may be more appropriate. Our care team can guide you to the right provider based on your child's needs.
