Let’s bring the records, questions and practical details together.

What to bring

• Referral letter and previous clinic or discharge summaries
• Laboratory results, scans, echocardiograms and images when available
• Immunisation or child-health card and antenatal/newborn records where relevant
• Medicine names, doses or photographs of the packs—including products from a chemist or pharmacy
• HMO/NHIA details and any authorisation already obtained

HMO and payment planning

Ask whether consultation, laboratory tests, imaging, procedures and admission need separate authorisations. Request a clear written estimate where appropriate.

Do not let paperwork delay urgent communication when a child is seriously unwell.

A simple timeline helps

Write down when the concern started, what changed, measured temperatures, feeding and drinking, activity, urination, medicines given and what previous clinicians said.

Planning the journey

Consider Abuja traffic, another caregiver, school, work and the child’s comfort. For urgent transfer or a seriously unwell child, call before travelling.

Development and school information

Bring feedback from crèche, nursery or school, previous therapy reports and hearing results. Tell the team which languages the child hears and uses.

Questions worth asking

What are the main possibilities? What tests are necessary? What should happen next? What warning signs require urgent help? Who should we contact after the visit?