How to select a pediatrician?

If you are looking for a pediatrician, you may be wondering where to start. Here are some tips to help you narrow your search.

Research doctors – Look at speaking to other moms and ask them to recommend a pediatrician they trust. Once you have a few names, call your insurance company and ask if the doctors you are interested in will be covered by your insurer. You should then look at where your doctor’s clinic or hospital is located. It is best to select a doctor that is within 20 minutes of your home.

Meet doctors face-to-face – If you are starting your search before your baby is born, request for a prenatal visit and have a few topics that you would want your doctor to address. You should also ask about how often your doctor is available to meet patients and how you can contact him in an emergency.

Decide if you click – Assess how comfortable you feel with your pediatrician. Some people prefer lady pediatricians who have children while others prefer more experienced male doctors. Whatever your preference, it is important that you are comfortable with your doctor and he/she is easy to take to.

See the doctor in action – In the waiting room, speak to a few other parents and ask them how the doctor is and how long their child has been seeing him/her. You should also ensure that your doctor is on time most of the time and you don’t have a long wait for your scheduled appointment.