Patient Experience
My 92-year-old mother, who has complex geriatric needs often overlooked in pediatrics, was visiting from out of town when she developed severe respiratory distress while caring for my infant. In a true crisis, we rushed to Acıbadem. Dr. Firat Beğde, though a pediatrician, was the first available. He didn't dismiss us. With astonishing calm and cross-disciplinary knowledge, he stabilized her oxygen levels, identified a latent cardiac issue exacerbating her symptoms, and coordinated seamlessly with the adult emergency team. His intervention in those first critical minutes was nothing short of heroic. He treated my elderly mother with the same gentle respect he shows babies. We are forever grateful for his decisive action beyond his specialty.
Our 8-year-old daughter, Elif, required a complex elective procedure to correct a congenital tracheal web. The surgery was delicate, with a high risk of complications. Dr. Beğde didn't just present a surgical plan; he drew diagrams for Elif, explaining it with a story about 'fixing a tiny tunnel so her laughter could flow freely.' His pre-operative confidence was reassuring, but his post-operative vigilance was profound. He personally checked on her every two hours through the first night, monitoring for the slightest sign of stenosis. His expertise was clinical, but his care was deeply human. Elif now breathes—and sings—perfectly, thanks to his masterful skill and unwavering dedication.
For our newborn's routine two-week checkup, we expected the standard weigh-and-measure. Dr. Firat Beğde transformed it into a comprehensive wellness journey. He spent 40 minutes with us, not just examining the baby but observing feeding techniques, discussing parental sleep schedules, and analyzing subtle skin tones I hadn't noticed. He explained infant circadian rhythms with the patience of a professor and the warmth of a grandfather. He picked up on a slight hip click that two previous clinicians had missed and immediately outlined a conservative monitoring plan. This wasn't a checkup; it was an education in early parenthood, delivered with immense kindness and staggering attention to detail.
Our 5-year-old son, Kerem, had a mysterious, recurring high fever that would spike suddenly without other symptoms, vanishing just as quickly. After multiple inconclusive emergency visits elsewhere, we saw Dr. Beğde for a follow-up consultation. He approached it like a detective, creating a detailed timeline of events we hadn't even connected. He requested specific, non-routine tests based on a hunch about periodic fever syndromes. His diagnosis of PFAPA syndrome was spot-on. He then meticulously explained a low-dose treatment plan, managing our expectations without dismissing our fears. His methodical, investigative approach solved a months-long mystery that had terrified us. He turned our panic into understanding and control.