For your newborn to have the best beginning in terms of health, find the right pediatrician who will care for them professionally from the initial wellness check-up and throughout their childhood years.
The most important health decision you’ll need to make for your baby entails choosing the right pediatrician.
A pediatrician is a healthcare practitioner who treats young patients’ behavioral, physical, and mental health. However, pediatricians don’t solely care for infants and young children; they also provide healthcare services for teenagers up to 18 years.
They conduct physical examinations, administer immunizations, track growth, and diagnose and treat illnesses. Choosing the right pediatrician for your baby is crucial because you’ll be relying on them for an extended period. Here are some pointers on how to find that doctor.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Pediatrician
Choosing the right pediatrician for your child is a crucial choice. Consider the following five suggestions to help you make the best decision.
Office location convenience
Factor in the location of the doctor’s office as you narrow down your choices for a pediatrician. As you review your list, take note of pediatricians with nearby offices and flexible hours. When accessing a doctor’s office becomes challenging, even the best options can lose their appeal. Think about navigating a congested city during rush hour with a sick child.
In the initial year following birth, babies visit their pediatrician frequently, usually every 2 to 3 months. Opting for a doctor near your home, work, or daycare can offer greater convenience and save time. Choose a doctor with offices conveniently accessible by public transportation if you don’t own a car.
How was the first visit?
You can determine if a pediatrician is the best fit for your child during the first office visit. It’s critical to pick a doctor you feel at ease with because this promotes open communication. Take note of the pediatrician’s interactions with your infant or young child. Do they seem to care about your child genuinely? Is the doctor familiar with your baby’s particular problems if they exist?
Before the newborn arrives you can have a visit where you can meet the pediatrician, and hospital staff, and ask questions. Pay attention to your instincts. This pediatrician is not the best choice for you if you don’t feel at ease after the visit.
Make sure to seek advice from your friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers who have children. People have different criteria for choosing a doctor, so what is most significant to you might not even be on their list. So instead of just compiling a list of names, try probing the person who makes the recommendation with some questions such as;
- Does the doctor give you enough time to talk about your issues and have a conversation?
- Is the administrative team kind and understanding?
- What is the typical wait time?
- Is there a welcoming, kid-friendly waiting area?
- What about parking?
- What exactly about the doctor or their practice don’t you like or wish were different?
- If your child is ill, can you schedule a last-minute appointment?
Your list of potential doctors can be reduced with the help of the responses you receive.
Check on doctors’ credentials and experience
A great resource for finding out the basics about pediatricians in your area is the internet. Many doctors have websites for their practices or are listed on websites for health systems. Here, you can learn more about the doctor’s education and training in medicine, office hours, and affiliated providers. And one more thing! While it might seem overly cautious, it’s wise to verify with the medical board that the doctor is authorized to practice.
During the initial visit, mention if you are expecting a child who requires specialized medical care. Inquire about the pediatrician’s experience treating this condition. Do you agree with their approach to treating the condition? Do they possess specialization in any fields of medicine?
When to find a pediatrician
Ideally, you should begin your search for a doctor three to four months before the due date. A wise, well-thought-out choice can be made if it is made well in advance of labor and delivery. If your preferred practitioner is not accepting new patients, you have plenty of time to look elsewhere. Additionally, it allows you to narrow down your options and schedule telephone or in-person consultations with pediatricians.
Must You Have a Pediatrician For Your Baby?
Not all infants visit a pediatrician. Some parents prefer a family practitioner, a doctor who specializes in family medicine and can care for the entire family from infancy to old age. The fact that your family doctor will be knowledgeable about health issues that affect your entire family, is one benefit mentioned by these parents. Additionally, since they can treat both you and your child, a family doctor can be convenient. In general, they offer nearly the same services as pediatricians, such as well-child visits, vaccinations, and guidance when your baby is ill.
The relationship between you and your child’s pediatrician is important. It can last for 18 years. Find a pediatrician who is accessible, has reasonable office hours, and is simple to get a hold of. Personal aspects, such as whether you trust the doctor and agree with their treatment plan, are also significant. Choose the option that feels most appropriate after weighing all the factors that are important to you. It’s also crucial to maintain a positive relationship with the doctor as your child gets older.