Pre-birth consultations
You want the best for your child, and so do we. As you prepare for the arrival of your new baby, one of the most important decisions you will face is choosing a pediatrician.
When looking for a pediatrician that you can trust with your baby’s care, it’s essential to pick someone you feel comfortable with and who meets your unique needs. To help establish a lasting relationship, our practices are available to meet with families in the third trimester of pregnancy. The goal of these visits is to provide an opportunity for parents to ask any questions they may have, as well as to understand the philosophy and operations of the practice and its services.
Below are some examples of frequently asked questions by expecting parents. These can help you determine whether or not a physician is the right fit for your family.
Convenience
Does the practice have weekend and evening hours?
How long does it take to get an appointment for a checkup or sick child visit?
Are same-day or walk-in appointments available?
What are average waiting room times?
Is someone available to take your calls and answer questions during and after office hours?
Hospital affiliation
Is the practice affiliated with a nationally ranked children’s hospital that offers a wide array of pediatric specialties?
What hospital emergency room or urgent care do they recommend?
Office
Is the office conveniently located?
Are there separate waiting rooms for sick and well children?
Insurance
Is the practice within your insurance network? How about the hospital the practice is affiliated with?
Do they accept many different plans, in case your coverage changes in the future?
What happens if you don’t have insurance? Are there payment plans or financial resources available?
Care
Does the practice follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations?
What is office policy on vaccinations and prescribing antibiotics?
What is the usual schedule for checkups?
Will the same doctor always see your child? What happens if he or she is unavailable?
Will the doctor answer any questions you may have? (e.g., feeding, nutrition, discipline, sleep)
Is the staff friendly and helpful?
Experience
How many years has the practice been open?
How long have the providers been practicing?
Are there nurse practitioners or physician assistants in addition to the pediatricians?
