Frequently Asked Questions About Growth, Thyroid, and Hormone Care
This FAQ page answers the most common questions we hear about pediatric growth and puberty concerns, thyroid conditions, and hormone care for perimenopause and menopause. Each answer is written in plain language so you can understand symptoms, testing options, and what next steps may look like.
This content is for education only, and your clinician should confirm what applies to your situation.
What does a pediatric endocrinologist treat?
We care for children with growth concerns, early or delayed puberty, thyroid issues, and hormone-related conditions that affect development, mood, or metabolism.
Do I need a referral to make an appointment?
No referral is needed. You can schedule directly with us. There are no insurance approvals or delays.
What is direct-pay care?
Direct-pay means you work with us directly rather than through insurance. This allows for longer visits, quicker access, clear pricing, and a more personal connection with your doctor.
What does the initial visit include?
The first visit includes a full hour with Dr. Pauley to review your child’s growth history, symptoms, and overall health. The goal is clarity, options, and a plan.
How much does it cost?
The initial consultation is $495. Ongoing care is $195 per month and includes quarterly visits and access to Dr. Pauley via email, text, or call. Labs and additional services are priced separately, or you can use your insurance.
What if I only want one visit or a second opinion?
That is perfectly fine. Many families come for a one-time visit or a second opinion. We are happy to offer insight even if you do not continue ongoing care.
When should I worry that my child is not growing normally?
A growth concern is worth evaluating when a child is growing much more slowly than before, dropping percentiles on the growth chart, or growing at a rate that does not match family height patterns.
What is a growth evaluation?
A growth evaluation is a step-by-step review of growth history and development that may include medical history, growth charts, physical exam, and targeted testing.
What is a bone age X-ray, and why is it used?
A bone age X-ray estimates skeletal maturity and helps predict how much growth time remains.
What is growth hormone deficiency?
Growth hormone deficiency is a condition in which the body does not produce enough growth hormone for typical growth and development.
What is a growth hormone stimulation test (stim test)?
A stim test checks how the body releases growth hormone after medications stimulate hormone release.
What is delayed puberty?
Delayed puberty is when puberty starts later than expected.
What is early puberty (precocious puberty)?
Early puberty is when puberty starts earlier than expected and should be medically evaluated.
Do you treat thyroid problems in children and adults?
Yes. Thyroid disorders can affect energy, mood, metabolism, growth, and development.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid is underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormone.
What is hyperthyroidism?
Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
Do you offer menopause and perimenopause care?
Yes. Care focuses on identifying hormone-related causes of symptoms and building an individualized treatment plan.
What is menopause?
Menopause is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.
Do you offer bioidentical hormones?
Bioidentical hormones are chemically identical to those made by the human body.
Do you provide men’s hormone care?
Yes. We evaluate symptoms like low energy, mood changes, sleep issues, and low testosterone concerns.
Do you offer medically supervised weight loss?
Yes. Treatment evaluates metabolic and hormone contributors and creates an individualized plan.
Do you offer telehealth visits?
Telehealth visits are often appropriate for follow-ups, lab reviews, and planning discussions.
Do I need labs before the first appointment?
In most cases, no. Testing is usually ordered after the initial evaluation.
How quickly can testing and next steps happen?
The goal is to move efficiently from symptoms to diagnosis and treatment planning.
Explore related topics: Growth Concerns, Early Puberty, Thyroid Disorders.