Pediatrics: How to Choose a Pediatrician
By Michele Blandino
Choosing your baby’s doctor will probably be one of the most important decisions you will make as a new parent. Your baby will see this doctor at least once a month during the first months of life and then at least once a year (although most children will make numerous visits during the course of the year) until they turn 18, so you want to be sure the doctor you choose is one that both you and your child trust, feel comfortable with and is easily accessible.
Choosing Between Small and Large Practices
One of the first things to consider is the size of the practice you wish to use. Generally, small offices offer the benefit of more personal contact, since you can be assured your child will be seen by the same doctor at each visit. And, when doctor is away from the office for vacation or any other reason, he will probably tend to use the same the covering physician.
Larger practices, though generally less personal, have the advantage of longer office hours including evening and weekend appointments. As a result, you typically do not have to wait very long to receive an appointment. While it is possible to develop a rapport with one doctor in a large practice and be seen by that doctor for well visits, typically when your child needs to be seen due to illness, you will need to be seen by whatever doctor is available. Some people are lucky enough to develop a rapport with several doctors in a large practice and feel equally comfortable with each one.
Consider the Location
Another thing to consider is the location of the practice. In general, you really don’t want to have to travel more than 20 minutes from home. While under normal circumstances taking a 30 minute (or longer) trip may not seem too unreasonable, think about how much longer that trip will seem with a sick child in the car.
Should You Interview?
While there are some people who will interview potential pediatricians, others don’t feel comfortable doing so. As an alternate strategy, interview friends, relatives or co-workers who use the doctor you are considering. Do they feel rushed when they come for a visit? Does the doctor listen sympathetically or does she try to rush through the appointment so she can move on the next patient? Does the doctor willingly accept phone calls to answer questions? If so, how long does it typically take for him to return your call?
If you choose to interview potential pediatricians, you may want to consider asking the following: What is their policy for fielding telephone calls from parents? What are their typical office hours? Do they use the same covering physician when they are away? How can you reach the office after hours or on weekends in the event of an emergency?
No Decision is Ever Final
A final word of advice: if after choosing a pediatrician you don’t feel comfortable with your selection, there’s no reason why you can’t move on. In fact, you may go through several doctors before finding one you click with. That’s ok – it’s more important to be comfortable with your doctor than it is to be afraid of offending them.
