Ep 117: How to reduce fear and anxiety around vaccines? with Jody Thomas, CEO of Meg Foundation for pain

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Jody Thomas, a clinical health psychologist and CEO of the Meg Foundation for pain, discusses strategies  to reduce fear and anxiety around needles in children.  Many children are affected by anxiety around vaccinations, and the Meg Foundation offers support to families to help.  She provides practical advice for parents to prepare their children for vaccinations, including creating a plan, using positive language, and considering other techniques such as utilizing numbing cream and vibration.  The conversation also highlights the efficiency and improved patient experience that can be achieved by implementing these techniques.  Check out the printable poke plan and other helpful resources on the Meg Foundation website. 

Takeaways

• Fear and anxiety around needles can significantly impact vaccination rates and healthcare decisions.
• Parents can help reduce fear by creating a plan, using positive language, and other strategies.
• Healthcare providers play a crucial role in supporting families and can offer strategies such as comfort positioning and giving choices.
• Empowering children in healthcare and addressing fear early can have long-term positive effects on their healthcare experiences.
• Spreading the message of effective pain management techniques to pediatricians and parents is crucial for improving the overall experience of children receiving medical care.

Dr Jessica Hochman is a board certified pediatrician, mom to three children, and she is very passionate about the health and well being of children. Most of her educational videos are targeted towards general pediatric topics and presented in an easy to understand manner.

For more content from Dr Jessica Hochman:
Instagram: @AskDrJessica
YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica
Website: www.askdrjessicamd.com

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Do you have a future topic you'd like Dr Jessica Hochman to discuss? Email Dr Jessica Hochman [email protected].

The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagnose medical conditions or formulate treatment plans for specific individuals. If you have a concern about your child's health, be sure to call your child's health care provider.