Your baby may see their pediatrician until they turn 18; thus it is crucial that this relationship be given careful thought and consideration.
Parents often begin their search for a pediatrician by receiving a referral from someone they trust — however, an in-person meeting can yield important information. Here are some key qualities that parents should look out for when searching for pediatricians.
Qualifications
With so much to do during pregnancy – from buying a crib and stocking up on diapers to finding a pediatrician – it can be easy for new parents to overlook this important decision which will affect them for years.
At first, you should look into a doctor’s qualifications. Most pediatric practices offer web pages listing each doctor and their qualifications – check these pages out to learn how long they have been practicing, any hospital affiliations they might be associated with and any education they might possess.
Consider whether they possess an M.D. (doctor of medicine) or D.O. (doctor of osteopathy). Both degrees are highly qualified to practice medicine; the main distinction lies in training. Aim for finding one who is board-certified in pediatrics; this signifies they have completed residency training and passed rigorous exams specific to this field, plus belong to American Academy of Pediatrics whose guidelines they abide by.
Reputation
Although online reviews should play a part in your search process, meeting with each pediatrician you’re considering is just as essential to ensure you find one with whom to work best for your family. Meeting will give you a chance to observe their bedside manner and interactions with children as well as how well they listen and accommodate any specific concerns from you or provide a welcoming atmosphere; from here you can tell if their personality fits with that of your family’s.
Request meetings with each of your top choices via virtual or in-person meeting, taking note of their availability. It’s best to select a pediatrician who will be accessible during infancy and early childhood when questions may arise regarding feeding, sleeping habits and other concerns. Also find out if they’re affiliated with the hospital you plan to deliver your baby at. This makes transferring providers easier if necessary.
Convenience
Within the first year of your child’s life, they should visit a pediatrician at least six times for well-baby visits and more often if sick; choosing one near home or day care will make scheduling these appointments simpler.
Talk with family and friends with children for recommendations; also, check your OB/GYN. Look for pediatricians within your insurance network who accept new patients, including virtual appointment options that enable you to connect with a doctor via phone call or video conference.
Many pediatricians also offer “get to know the pediatrician” meetings prior to your child’s birth, giving you the opportunity to meet and evaluate both office staff, waiting room cleanliness, credentials of your provider as well as any factors which are important for you before making your final decision about whether it is the right match.
Fees
As you narrow down your list of doctors, be sure to ask about fees. Many pediatricians charge for prenatal visits that might not be covered by insurance.
As part of your meeting, ask about their philosophy on topics that matter to you – for instance breastfeeding and vaccinations. Their opinions could subsequently impact how they provide care to your child.
Finding a pediatrician may just seem like another task on your baby preparation checklist, but this decision has far-reaching effects. Don’t rush! Start searching at least 3 months ahead so you have enough time to collect recommendations from friends and family, visit potential providers’ offices, and make a final choice.https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnd68avWFK0