Tips for finding a pediatrician
- Talk to your friends: Dr. Jobes says the best way to start the search is to ask your friends about their pediatricians, and the experiences they have had. “Talk to your friends, because if they’re happy with their pediatrician, you probably will be as well,” Jobes says.
- Visit the office: Meghann Wellard, a nurse practitioner from Arundel Pediatrics, says the most important step in finding the right pediatrician is to visit the office. “Make sure the location is close to you and feel out the atmosphere,” she says. She also suggests determining if you want a pediatrician with a big or small practice, and looking for open houses at several practices, so you can really check out the offices.
- Make note of office policies: “Check to see if the office policies agree with your own personal views,” Wellard says. Generally, the two biggest issues are breastfeeding and vaccines and it’s important that office policies are in line with your own personal views, she says.
- Office hours: Make sure the office hours are convenient for you and your family.
- Insurance: It may seem obvious but make sure the doctor or practice accepts your insurance, Jobes says. If you find a practice or a doctor that you love, but they do not accept your insurance, you will have to start your search all over again.
- Meet the Doctor: Jobes suggests going to an open house or making an appointment to meet the doctor. Feel out the personalities of the doctors and staff. It is, “nice to know you like this person” before making a decision, she says.
- Kidshealth.org recommends asking the following questions when meeting with the doctor:
- What is the payment policy? Are fees due at time of service?
- Will the doctor handle emergencies or will your child be referred somewhere else?
- Will the doctor communicate by email?
- What hospital is the practice affiliated with?
