Question 1

How much does a pediatrician visit cost without insurance in St. Johns County?

Accepted Answer

A self-pay sick visit at a local pediatric office typically runs $110 to $220, and a well-child visit $150 to $300 before vaccines. Vaccines are priced separately and can add $25 to $250 each depending on the shot. Children without insurance may qualify for Florida KidCare or Medicaid, and the Vaccines for Children program provides free vaccines through participating offices and the county health department. Ask the office about self-pay discounts.

Question 2

What vaccines does my child need to start school in St. Johns County?

Accepted Answer

Florida public and private schools require a Certification of Immunization, form DH 680, showing the state-required vaccines for the child's grade, plus a school entry health exam on form DH 3040 for kindergarten and new students. Requirements are set by the Florida Department of Health and can change, so ask your pediatrician or the St. Johns County Health Department for the current list for your child's grade. Exemptions have specific rules; ask the office.

Question 3

Is there a children's hospital near St. Augustine?

Accepted Answer

The closest full children's hospital is Wolfson Children's Hospital in downtown Jacksonville, about 45 minutes to an hour from St. Augustine and 25 to 35 minutes from Julington Creek and Nocatee. Wolfson also operates pediatric emergency services at Baptist Medical Center South near the Duval and St. Johns line. UF Health Flagler Hospital in St. Augustine has an emergency department that treats children and transfers complex cases.

Question 4

Where can I take my child for after-hours care in Nocatee or Ponte Vedra?

Accepted Answer

Several pediatric practices in the northern county run evening or Saturday sick clinics for their own patients, so call your office first. Pediatric-focused urgent care is available at a small number of locations in St. Johns and southern Duval counties, and general urgent care clinics in Nocatee, Ponte Vedra, and along CR 210 see children over certain ages. For breathing trouble, head injuries, or high fever in an infant under three months, go to an emergency room.

Question 5

When should I switch my teenager from a pediatrician to a family doctor?

Accepted Answer

Most pediatric practices see patients through age 18, and some continue to 21 or through college. There is no rule that forces a switch. Teens who want more privacy or who have adult-type health needs sometimes move to a family medicine practice at 16 to 18. Ask your pediatrician what the practice's age limit is so the transition is not rushed when they age out.

Question 6

Does my child need a sports physical for St. Johns County schools?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Student athletes in St. Johns County public schools must have a current Florida High School Athletic Association preparticipation physical, form EL2, completed each year before practice. Many pediatric offices book these in May through July, and some hold dedicated sports physical days. Self-pay sports physicals typically cost $40 to $90. Ask the school athletic office for the exact form and deadline, since they change.

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