Finding the Best Pediatrician for Your Child
Getting the right health care for your child is important. One vaccine can prevent five different diseases. Children who go without the measles vaccine are 35 times more likely to contract it than vaccinated children and children who go without the pertussis vaccine are eight times more at risk.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, healthy children should have consistent yearly check-ups with their pediatric physician, but you can start the process of finding a pediatrician even before the baby’s born.
Finding a pediatrician before the baby’s birth gives you time to make an informed and calculated choice and ensures that your baby can have the care they need as quickly as they need it.
Pediatrics doctors can steer you through the uncertain waters of early parenthood and keep your baby happy and healthy. Getting the right pediatric care for your child can be complicated, but make sure your search is thorough so you can find a doctor who will help your baby thrive.
Pediatrician reviews and referrals can be obtained through insurance companies, medical schools and the AAP, but often the best method is to ask your midwife or obstetrician, as well as friends, relatives and co-workers with kids who share your parenting philosophies.
Different people look for different things in doctors, so be sure to ask plenty of questions rather than just gathering a list of names. Ask if the doctor is good with children, welcomes questions, communicates concerns and is up to date on medical advances. Ask if the staff is patient and helpful, if wait time is long and if the waiting room is kid-friendly. Also be sure to ask if there’s anything they didn’t like about the doctor’s service.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of candidates, check that each pediatrician is accepting new patients and is compatible with your health insurance. See which office hours and locations are convenient for you, and then visit them there. Most offices will allow you to interview your potential pediatrician, but some charge for it, so ask about cost in advance.
Ask each doctor questions that are important to you. Consider asking about phone or email inquiries, after hours care, how appointments can be made and how often your child will be able to see their own doctor, and if the doctor has a certain subspecialty. Make sure you have a good rapport with the doctor and staff and that the facilities are up to your standards.
You can always change doctors later if you’re unsatisfied with your doctor’s care, but it’s important that the first pediatrician your baby sees is someone you can trust. Take your time finding a pediatrician and make sure your choice is the best option for you and your child.
