Everything Expecting Parents Need to Know
It might be because we’re pediatricians, but we believe that welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting and life-changing event that takes a village! There’s a lot to prepare for, from setting up the nursery, attending childbirth classes to deciding what is needed in the nursery. However, there is one big decision that often gets overlooked: choosing the right doctor for your baby and your family. We recommend you start looking for a pediatrician well before your baby is born. Having your pediatrician lined up by the third trimester will help smooth your transition into parenthood and ensure you can tailor your child’s care to their specific needs from day one.
Why Choosing a Pediatrician Before Birth is So Important
Your family’s pediatrician will play a central role in your child’s development, working with you through all of life’s stages, to monitor physical growth, measure behavioral milestones, and evaluate your child’s emotional and physical well-being from infancy through adolescence. Researching and finding a trusted pediatrician that matches your values and care plans ahead of time provides peace of mind, allows you to ask important questions in advance, and ensures your newborn receives the best primary care possible, as soon as they arrive.
New Parent Tip: Waiting until the last minute to find your pediatrician could limit your options or result in rushed decisions that could affect the trajectory of your baby’s care. Get started early to find a pediatrician and care team you really connect with and trust!
How to Choose the Right Pediatrician for Your Growing Family
Choosing the right pediatrician for your family involves more than just adding a name to paperwork. It’s a decision that should be based on trust, your ability to communicate well with each other, and how comfortable you will feel discussing everything from fevers to feeding challenges as your baby grows.
Here’s how to choose the right pediatrician before your baby is born:
1. Review Their Credentials
First, be sure your potential pediatrician has the right credentials and certifications to support the life-long health of your baby. Look for board certification, for example, a pediatrician who is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics has completed medical school, a pediatric residency, and passed rigorous exams. These credentials are an easy way to verify that the pediatricians meet a higher standard of knowledge and practice.
New Parent Tip: It’s okay to ask, “Are you board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics?” The doctor should say they are board certified and should mention what kinds of professional development and continuous education they participate in.
2. Check if They Accept Your Insurance
Remember, not all insurance companies are accepted by all pediatricians. By verifying this in advance you can avoid unexpected bills later.
New Parent Tip: Have your insurance information ready and ask them to verify if they cover your plan. If they don’t, you may want to consider finding a pediatrician in your network or whether there is a self-pay option.
3. Get Information on Their Availability & Office Policies
Be sure to find out whether your new pediatrician offers things like after-hours care, same-day sick visits, hospital privileges, and ask how the practice handles emergencies.
New Parent Tip: Don’t forget to ask if they have after-hours availability and what to do in the event of an emergency. They should be able to share an after-hours line or their on-call schedule.
4. Discuss Their Parenting Philosophy
Make sure you ask your pediatrician about the topics that matter to you and your family most, like breastfeeding, vaccinations, sleep training, using antibiotics, and more!
New Parent Tip: It’s okay to ask about topics that might seem uncomfortable – it’s important to know ahead of time to make sure you are both on the same team!
5. Explore Their Clinic
Ask to take a tour of the office and care facility to get a better idea of how you’ll feel bringing in your child as they grow. As you explore the clinic, consider if the space is clean, welcoming, and child friendly.
New Parent Tip: Take a tour of your pediatrician’s clinic and as you explore, determine if you feel comfortable interacting with the staff. If you are uncomfortable during the tour, you’ll likely feel uncomfortable during a routine visit.
Your Cheat-Sheet on How to Select a Pediatrician
Making the Right Decision for Your Family
When you choose a pediatrician for your growing family, you’re setting the foundation for your child’s growth and development. Help ensure your child has the best care possible by finding a pediatrician who communicates clearly, discusses your parenting choices with an open mind, and makes your family feel heard and cared for.
Whether you’re preparing for your first pediatrician visit, deciding how to choose the right pediatrician now that you’re adding a sibling, or looking to transfer pediatric care for your child, taking the time now will pay off later.
New Parent Tip: It’s okay to switch pediatricians if things don’t work out. The pediatrician best suited for you may not always be the first one you meet, and that’s okay. Make it your goal is to select a pediatrician who supports and partners with you through every milestone and challenge.
Choosing the right pediatrician for your family isn’t just about credentials and convenience – it’s about creating a strong, lasting relationship with a doctor you trust. Start early, ask the right questions, and make an informed decision before your little one arrives, after all, you and your child deserve the best care from day one.