If you’re starting to look for a pediatrician, you should ask family members, friends and other parents you trust for references. They know you and what you’re looking for in a pediatrician. You can also ask your Ob/Gyn for recommendations. If you’re new to the community, you may consider asking for recommendations on social media, but always do your own research. You know best what you’re looking for in a pediatrician.
After you’ve compiled a list of options, contact the offices to inquire more about each pediatrician. The office staff should be able to answer some of your questions, including:
- Is the pediatrician accepting new patients?
- Do you take my insurance?
- How are billing and insurance handled?
- Is payment due at the time of the office visit?
- What are the office hours? Do you have weekend or evening appointments?
- When’s the best time to call with routine questions?
If you’re impressed with what you hear, you may want to arrange for a personal interview with the pediatrician. Some key questions you may want to ask include:
- What’s your policy on taking and returning phone calls? Is there a nurse in your office who can answer routine questions?
- Are you in a group practice with other physicians? Does another physician cover for you at times?
- How are visits for sudden (acute) illnesses handled? Can you make an appointment on short notice?
- If my child requires further care for a health condition or disorder, will you coordinate care among specialists?
Ask yourself the following questions after the interviews to help you decide on the best pediatrician for your child:
- Did the pediatrician communicate clearly?
- Did they make an effort to ensure that all your questions were answered?
- Do you get a sense they have a genuine interest in your child?