It can be difficult to know who to trust when it comes to your child's health. You want to make sure that you find the right pediatrician for your family, someone who you can rely on to provide quality care for your child. Here are a few tips on how to find the right pediatrician and what to look for in one.

Things to Consider

pediatrician

When choosing a pediatrician for your child, you should consider the following:
  • Your child's age
  • The location of the pediatrician's office
  • The hours that the pediatrician is available
  • The pediatrician's medical philosophy
  • Whether the pediatrician is affiliated with a hospital
  • The pediatrician's experience with children
  • Whether the pediatrician accepts your insurance plan
Once you have considered these factors, you can begin to narrow down your choices. You may want to ask friends and family for recommendations or compile a list of potential pediatricians and then do some research on each one. You can visit their websites or call their offices to find out more about their practice.You should also schedule consultations with each of the pediatricians on your list to get a better idea of what they would be like as your child's doctor. Be sure to ask lots of questions, such as:
  1. How often should my child see the pediatrician? Most children should see a doctor at least once a year, but some may need more frequent visits.
  2. What is the pediatrician's policy on sick visits? Some doctors require that you call before coming in, while others will see your child even if they are not feeling well.
  3. What is the pediatrician's policy on phone consultations? Some doctors do not offer phone consultations, while others will only do them for established patients.
  4. What vaccines does the pediatrician offer?
You should also get a sense of the pediatrician's personality and whether you think they will be a good fit for your family.If all of the pediatricians you have interviewed are good candidates, then it may come down to personal preference or which doctor is accepting new patients at the time. If you have to make a decision quickly, try to go with your gut instinct.Ultimately, choosing the right pediatrician is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. By taking into account the factors above, you will be well on your way to finding the perfect doctor for your child.  Call (540) 739-3623 to schedule an appointment with any of our incredible doctors at New Beginnings Pediatrics.