Your baby’s developing body needs specific health care – the kind that differs from the needs of adults. It is usually provided by a pediatrician, a doctor who specializes in the care of babies, children, and also teenagers.
Medical doctors complete four years of medical school, where else to become specialized in the field of pediatrics, three additional years of training in the field is needed.
Apart from providing routine care, medical attention when injuries and illnesses occur, and also providing immunizations, pediatricians can also help with issues such as growth and development, feeding, and in some cases, behavioural problems too.
A pediatrician may practice alone, or some may work together in a group practice. In a pediatric doctor’s office, there will also be nurses, where else the rest of the team may include a laboratory technician and an administrative staff.
Do you have a family pediatrician?
Your baby need not be born into the world yet for you to ‘shop’ around for an ideal pediatrician for his future health care needs. In fact, finding one beforehand is an important part of preparing for a new baby! There are many things to consider when doing this, such as the pediatrician’s training and experience, as well as the office location, hours, and routines.
If you’re looking for a pediatrician, ideally, begin as soon as possible. You can ask your obstetrician for names, and talk with other parents about their pediatrician. It is often a good idea to meet with two or three prospective pediatricians before your baby is born, to learn more about the doctors and staff, and also to ask questions. Note: There may or may not be a charge for this kind of visit.
Points to consider when deciding on the ideal pediatrician for your baby
- Location: You may want to find a pediatrician near your home. Some parents may prefer to find one near to their place of work.
- How long does it take to get there? You might have to consider how long will the journey be during peak hours as well.
- Parking convenience. Although you’re not anticipating visiting often, the ability to park nearest as possible to the doctor’s office will surely matter when you do visit with your baby.
- Does the practice have more than one office/more than one doctor? This will be important if you wish to see the same pediatrician for each visit.
Other points to consider:
- What are the office hours?
- Is there a weekend and/or evening hours?
- How do you make an appointment?
- How long does it take to get a check-up appointment?
- How long does it take to get a sick-child appointment?
- What about payments and billing?
- Is this pediatrician listed as a provider on your insurance plan? In regards to this, which hospital is the pediatrician affiliated with? Is this compatible with your insurance plan?
- How long do you have to wait in the office before you are seen?
- Is there a separate waiting area for sick children?
- Do the office staff seem friendly and interested in children?
Things you might want to know about the prospective pediatrician/practice
- The pediatrician’s training and experience. Does he have a specialty or area of interest?
- What are his views on immunization, and the use of medications, particularly antibiotics and over-the-counter medications?
- Will he be willing to prescribe medications over the phone?
- Will he be the only one to see your child for all visits?
- Who should you call if your child gets sick during the night or on weekends?
As you talk with the pediatrician and the office staff, you’ll soon know whether they have the same train of thought as you regarding your child’s health care. Before you decide on anything, you may also want to consider consulting with other parents to find out their experiences and recommendations.
