PARENTINGNOW™ Choosing a Pediatrician

Picking a Pediatrician

WHERE TO START AND WHAT TO ASK

BY PARENTING NOW

EING PREGNANT CAN BE such an exciting time. There’s baby clothes to pick out, potential baby B names to gush over, and lots of decisions to make, including who your child’s pediatrician will be.

But where do you start? And how do you know if a pediatrician is the right fit for your family? Pediatrician Anita Geisler, MD, offers up her top 10 questions to ask during a “Meet and Greet” with a potential pediatrician.

Expecting parents should start looking for a pediatrician at least 3 months before their due date, or sooner if there is a chance of preterm labor. Asking friends and family for recommendations is a great place to start, and don’t be shy about reaching out to local parenting groups on Facebook for their insights. Other points to consider when choosing a pediatrician is whether they accept your insurance, and logistics like the distance between your home and their clinic.

Once you’ve picked a pediatrician candidate, you’ll want to schedule a “Meet and Greet” with them.

If you’re feeling nervous or shy, or just don’t know what to ask, take a list of questions with you. Not sure what to ask about? Dr. Geisler has got you covered:

WHAT TO ASK A POTENTIAL PEDIATRICIAN:

• What are your office hours/call coverage? How can I reach a doctor or nurse after hours?

• Do you offer after-hours visits? • How much time will my child see you and how much of the time will they be seeing an advanced practice clinician (PA/NP)?

• What is your philosophy on raising children?

• If nursing: Does the clinic have a lactation specialist? • If vaccinating: What is your clinic’s immunization schedule? What are your beliefs in vaccinating children? • If not vaccinating: Do you accept patients who do not follow the recommended immunization schedule?

• What essentials are needed at home before my baby comes home? • If having a boy: What are the current recommendations on circumcision?

• Do you see my newborn in the hospital or not until the first office visit?

Dr. Geisler advises: “Please do ask what is on your mind, there is never a question too silly. It is likely to be on other moms’ minds and has probably been asked before!” ✦