How will we choose a pediatrician?
What's up, Doc?
A pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in infants, children, adolescents, and young adults. For many young people, a pediatrician is the primary health care provider from birth through the age of 18.
You'll rely on your pediatrician to watch your baby's health and wellbeing. You'll turn to them when you have questions about food, sleep, poop - and pretty much anything related to your baby, especially during those exciting early years of growth and development.
Starting the search early
Start your search during your second or third trimester. This’ll give you plenty of time to research your options, get referrals, and meet in person without the stress of an upcoming due date. As you create a list of potential pediatricians, make sure they are covered by your insurance plan.
Asking for recommendations
Friends and family who have children can provide useful recommendations based on their own experiences with pediatricians. They can share both positive and negative feedback, which helps you understand what you might like or dislike in a pediatrician. This personal insight can guide you in identifying the qualities that are most important to you.
Your healthcare provider can also be a valuable resource. They often know reputable pediatricians and can suggest ones who are well-regarded in your community. They can also offer advice on what to look for in a pediatrician.
Considering location & logistics
When you’re dealing with the demands of a newborn and lack of sleep, convenience can become crucial. Choose a pediatrician whose office is close to your home or workplace to reduce travel time for appointments.
Check the office hours and their flexibility for last-minute visits, especially if your schedule might require adjustments. Look for a practice that makes appointment booking easy, whether online or through a helpful office staff.
Also, find out which hospitals the pediatrician is connected to in case of emergencies or if specialized care is needed. Make sure these hospitals are reputable and conveniently located for you. This will help ensure that you have reliable and accessible care options if the need ever arises.
Evaluating the pediatrician's background
Your pediatrician should be board-certified in pediatrics, indicating they have undergone specialized training in child healthcare and passed rigorous exams. In addition to their certification, consider their years of experience and any extra training they may have.
Aligning on parenting approach
Each pediatrician has their own views on important parenting topics like breastfeeding, sleep training, discipline, and alternative medicine. It's crucial to find a pediatrician whose approach matches your parenting style and values.
For instance, if you plan to breastfeed for an extended period, you'll want a pediatrician who supports and understands extended nursing. If you plan to return to work after maternity leave, seek a practice that offers resources for working parents, such as evening or weekend appointments and a reliable nurse line for questions outside regular hours.
Scheduling a meet & greet
Many practices offer meet & greets. Prepare a list of important questions, such as the pediatrician’s views on antibiotics, immunizations, and circumcision. Pay attention to whether they listen attentively and answer your questions thoroughly, or they seem like they're in a rush to get to the next appointment.
Observe whether they seem genuinely interested in your family's well-being, or they are just going through the motions. A good pediatrician should make you feel heard, respected, and supported, like a trusted partner in your parenting journey.
It's also important to evaluate how the pediatrician interacts with children. Pay attention to how they engage with kids during your visit or in the waiting room. Do they get down to the child's level, use age-appropriate language, and make an effort to comfort them? These qualities are crucial for creating a positive healthcare experience for your child.
Assessing the practice environment
When you visit a pediatric practice, observe your initial impressions carefully. Check if the waiting room is clean, welcoming, and equipped with toys and books suitable for children. Ensure there are separate areas for sick and well patients to reduce the risk of spreading germs. Notice how the nurses and office staff interact with you—are they friendly, patient, and helpful with your questions?
Since long wait times can be particularly tough with young children, ask about the typical wait duration and how the practice manages to keep waits as short as possible. These factors can significantly affect your experience and stress levels during visits.
Trusting your instincts
If a pediatrician looks great on paper but doesn't quite click with you in person, keep looking. You want a pediatrician who you can trust and feel comfortable with, someone who'll be your partner in making sure your little one stays healthy and happy. It might take a bit of effort, but it'll be worth it in the end.
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