How do you select a pediatrician for your newborn?

Among the dozens of “the most important decisions you’ll ever make” about your child, this one deserves your careful attention. Most doctors will want to see the child at 2 days, 2 weeks, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months and 12 months. You and your child will be spending a lot of time with the doctor the first year, and will hopefully continue the relationship through adolescence.

Get referrals from trusted sources, narrow down a list of candidates, and carefully evaluate them. There are solo practitioners, and group practices. There are family doctors and pediatricians. No pediatrician or family doctor is inherently bad. However, you will need to find one that fits your child, your lifestyle, and your beliefs.

Finding a Pediatrician

Your obstetrician, friends, family members, and neighbors are a great sources for referrals. If you intend to breastfeed, the local La Leche League group will know which doctors are supportive. Once you have a list, check it against your insurance company’s list of providers. Once you narrow down the list…

Choose a Pediatrician Before the Child is Born

The first few months after the birth leave you with little energy after your care-taking duties. The process is more involved than picking a name off a list. Many hospitals will require you to submit the name of a pediatrician or family practitioner before admittance to the delivery room.

Preliminary Interviews

Most doctors will grant this interview. Both parents should be present. If the doctor is reluctant or unwilling to be interviewed, move on.

Compatible Philosophies

During the interview, you will have to find out where your doctor stands on breastfeeding, vaccinations, nutrition, and other child-rearing issues. This is an ongoing relationship and not just a product you buy off the shelf. You and your child will have to be comfortable with the doctor and how he or she chooses to practice medicine. Do you want an authority figure or a collaborative relationship with your pediatrician?

The Office Atmosphere

Is there a separate waiting area for sick children? Is the office clean and orderly? Is the waiting area furnished with child-size furniture? Are there a variety of toys and books for the children?

What about office hours? If you are a single parent or if both parents work 9-5, extended hours are a must.

Friendly and helpful staff make your visit more pleasant for you and your child. I don’t care how good or vital a product or service is. If the people stink, then it’s not worth the hassle.

Solo Practice or Group Practice

There are pros and cons to both. You will have to decide what is important to you.

The sole practitioner may be able to offer a closer doctor-patient relationship. However, you may have limited access to care. Doctors have lives, and do need to go on vacation. If your child develops a preference for a doctor of the same gender (as many do), you will have to start your search all over again.

Group practices usually offer extended hours. They can provide care on weekends and holidays. A group practice is likely to have both male and female doctors. Making a switch to accommodate your child’s wishes is much easier. However, you are less likely to develop as close a relationship as you can with a sole practitioner.

Other Considerations

How are non-emergencies handled? Some practices have nurse practitioners on call to answer routine questions. Doctors also make themselves available for telephone consultation at specific hours. The practice we selected offers extended hours 365 days a year and the ability to make appointments online.