Among the many things on your pregnancy to-do list, finding the right pediatrician is one of the most important items.
A pediatrician is a physician who is concerned primarily with the health and development of children. Aside from four years of medical school, pediatricians complete at least three years of intensive training that focuses on all aspects of medical care for infants, children, adolescents and young adults.
During the first year of your baby’s life, you will visit your pediatrician six times for well visits alone, so you want someone who you can trust to give you solid advice and guidance as your child grows and changes from infancy to adolescence.
Get Recommendations
The first step in finding the right pediatrician is a little research. Ask trusted friends or family members for recommendations. But don’t stop at just getting a name; ask the following questions to find out why they're recommended:
- Does the pediatrician show a genuine interest in the problems and needs of their child?
- Do they often feel rushed during an appointment?
- Does the doctor take time to listen to their concerns and answer questions?
You can also ask your OB/GYN for options or check out online tools. Carilion's Pediatric Primary Care page provides an overview of primary pediatric care as well as specialty care and features clinicians and pediatric locations. Carilion's Tanglewood location in Roanoke County offers primary care and 18 pediatric specialties, plus imaging and labs, under one roof.
The American Academy of Pediatrics offers a similar tool as well.
Check Out the Care Team
Once you have a list of recommendations, do some further research online to ensure that each physician fits the following criteria:
- Are they certified by the American Board of Pediatrics? This means that the physician has passed a specialized exam in pediatrics.
- How long have they been in practice?
- Did they go to a reputable medical school and complete a residency in pediatrics?
Check Out the Practice
Once you have narrowed down your list to a few promising candidates, it is time to call the practice. Explain that you are looking for a pediatrician for your child and ask the following questions:
- Is the pediatrician accepting new patients?
- Does the practice accept your insurance?
- Is the doctor part of a group practice? If so, ask about the background of the other doctors.
- Is the doctor affiliated with a hospital? If so, ask about pediatric specialists at that hospital.
- Does the doctor offer virtual visits?
- Can you call and talk to your doctor or a nurse if you have questions?
- For questions that are not urgent, do they offer a way to communicate via email, such as MyChart?
- Does the practice offer same-day sick appointments?
- How can you reach a doctor or nurse if your child is sick after hours?
- How does the practice handle emergencies?
Other things to consider include the practice's location, hours and available parking.
Schedule a Visit
If you like what you hear, ask about arranging a phone interview or office visit to meet with the pediatrician. This is your opportunity to make sure you are on the same page regarding a childcare philosophy, such as breastfeeding, immunizations, circumcision, co-sleeping and other parenting issues.
When you visit the office, take a moment to take in the atmosphere:
- Is the waiting area clean and inviting?
- Is there a separate waiting area for sick visits and well visits?
- Is the staff helpful and friendly?
And lastly, don’t forget to trust your gut. You know what is best for you and your future little one, so go with a pediatrician and practice that makes you feel comfortable and secure.
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This article was reviewed by a Carilion Children's pediatrician.
