As families reset for a new school year, wellness checks often come back into focus; but for some, the traditional pediatric model no longer meets the moment. That’s where Scottsdale’s Full Life Medical steps in.
Founded by Dr. Ivorie Coleman, MD, MBA, and home to a growing team of top-tier physicians including pediatric lead Dr. Kelsey Chemelewski, Full Life blends the values of family medicine with the access and attentiveness of concierge care. Their philosophy? That every parent deserves a direct line to their doctor, and every child deserves time, attention, and tailored care as they grow.
In this Q&A, Dr. Chemelewski offers thoughtful answers to the questions she hears most from parents.
Q: How can parents navigate puberty-related topics without shame or awkwardness?
Start the conversation early- around age 8 is a good time- and keep it casual and ongoing. Normalize the changes their bodies are going through. There are also great books to help get the dialogue started, especially for kids who may be hesitant to talk.
Q: What do you say to the parents who whisper, “Is it normal that my 9-year-old still wets the bed?”
Yes, bedwetting can still be completely normal at that age. It’s often related to genetics and deep sleep patterns. If the child isn’t bothered, there’s typically no rush to intervene. But if it starts to impact their self-esteem, we can begin exploring options.
Q: Are kids really starting puberty earlier these days?
Yes, the average age of puberty onset has crept earlier. For girls, puberty often starts between 8–13; for boys, it’s 9–14. We’ve seen a drop in the average age of menstruation, from 12.5 in the 1950s to 11.9 today. The reasons are multifactorial: genetics, rising obesity rates, and possible exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals in plastics and personal care products. Ongoing research is exploring these links more deeply.
Q: When should parents be concerned about delayed puberty?
If a girl hasn’t started breast development by 13 or hasn’t had her first period by 15, or if a boy hasn’t shown testicular enlargement by 14, it’s worth a discussion with your pediatrician. Most often, it’s what we call Constitutional Delay- a child who’s simply on a slower, but still normal, timeline. A good family history and a few targeted tests can often confirm this.
Q: What kind of skincare is safe for tweens and early teens?
Start simple. A gentle, unscented cleanser like CeraVe or Cetaphil is usually sufficient. If acne begins to appear, we might recommend adding a benzoyl peroxide wash or topical treatment. Your pediatrician can help guide that transition.
Q: What are early signs of scoliosis or posture concerns during growth spurts?
Look for uneven shoulders, clothing that doesn’t hang evenly, or an unusual curve during a forward bend test. These issues can become more pronounced during growth spurts, so regular pediatric visits are key to catching them early.
Q: When should cholesterol and blood pressure be checked in kids?
All children should have a cholesterol screening between ages 9–11. If there’s a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure, testing may be recommended earlier. Keeping your pediatrician informed of your family's health history is crucial for early prevention.
Q: What makes concierge pediatrics different?
Time and access. I chose concierge care so I could truly show up for families. I see every child personally, without rotating doctors or rushed visits. Parents can call or text me directly—no phone trees or triage lines. And when a specialist is needed, I know exactly who to recommend because I’ve built those relationships. It’s care that’s personal, responsive, and built on trust.
Q: What changes when appointments aren’t rushed and communication is direct?
I get to truly connect with my patients- not just treat symptoms. With more time and direct access, we can dive into important topics like sleep, nutrition, and mental health. I also get to know kids beyond their chart, which builds trust. And when something urgent comes up, parents can text or call me directly, which brings fast answers and real peace of mind.
FullLifeMedical.com
"Start the conversation early- around age 8- and keep it casual and ongoing. Normalize the changes their bodies are going through."