It is a better idea to call up and talk to the doctor and try to solve minor problems on the phone itself. In fact, being a doctor, it is easier to deal with minor issues on the phone, so that we can concentrate on those children who are seriously sick.

However, it is also very important to remember that like any service, this too should be tackled with a great deal of care and respect. Many doctors refuse to give their mobile numbers, fearing an onslaught of unnecessary calls from patients.

To see that you don't rub your doctor the wrong way, and that you make optimum use of this facility, here are some things that you should be aware of, and should take care, when calling your paediatrician:

• Except in a dire emergency, try and avoid calling your doctor at night, on a holiday, or in the afternoon, when most doctors are known to rest.
  
  
• As far as possible, do not call your doctor on his mobile, to fix appointments. Use the clinic landline for this, and try to deal with the doctor's receptionist, for anything that does not need the doctor's expertise, like fixing appointments, finding out if the doctor is available, whether there is a rush in the clinic etc.
  
  
• Avoid calling the doctor for discussing your worries regarding your child's development, diet or behaviour as these discussion take long, and are better done face to face.