How to Pick a Pediatrician

We are wanting the best care for our newborn, so it makes sense to start looking for a pediatrician while you are still pregnant. Here are some helpful tips to help you make this important decision.

We interviewed Dr. Donald Brown at Streeterville Pediatrics in Chicago to answer the top questions all new parents want to know. Towards the end of your 2nd trimester, you should start researching pediatricians that you may want to follow up with.

Choosing Which Pediatricians to Consider
Ask your Obstetrician who they might recommend. Your OB should have an idea of reputable and competent pediatricians in the area. Ask your friends for referrals. Although your friends may not be as aware of the competency of the physician, they can let you know about the doctor’s personality, how well the office works, etc. Most pediatric practices will offer free of charge “Pre-Natal Visits”. This is a visit where you can get a chance to meet your prospective pediatrician and ask whatever questions you may be considering. Assess how well the physician answers your question and considers your personal preferences. Check out the office staff, layout, cleanliness, etc. Consider talking to patients in the reception area to get their opinion of the practice.

Important Considerations

• Hours
• Parking availability
• Is the office closer to work or closer to home?
• Who sees my baby – does the nurse do most of the work, or do I get most of the time with the doctor?
• Do I want a smaller or larger practice? There are advantages and disadvantages to both. Do I want individual attention, or is convenience most important?
• Clearly, larger clinics can provide more open hours—if convenience is the factor.
• Smaller practices provide a lot of individual attention. In a larger clinic, you’ll probably see different doctors all the time.
• What hospital is the physician on staff at? Is it a “Pediatric” hospital, or the local hospital that may not specialize for children?

What are the top 3 questions new parents should ask when interviewing a new Pediatrician?

1. How may I reach you in an emergency?
2. Will I be able to see my main doctor most of the time, or do I have to see the other doctors?
3. What hospitals are you on staff?

TIP from Dr. Brown: I especially like and recommend the American Academy of Pediatrics website HealthyChildren.org. It provides a wealth of information that is reviewed and backed up by current research.

Other Decisions and To-Do Lists

• Attend birthing classes. Ask yourself what your birth plan will be. Do you want natural childbirth, with the fewest interventions and no medications or epidurals? Or do you want all the pain relief they can give you? It is a personal CHOICE and it is yours.
• Do you want to make a formal birth plan for the hospital staff to follow?
• Do you want to breastfeed or bottle feed your baby?
• If you have a boy, do you want him circumcised?
• Do you want to make cord blood donation?
• Do you want to save your placenta?
• Call your insurance company and ask about your hospital benefits. Don’t forget to later put the baby on your policy.
• Book your night nurse. www.sweetdreamsinfantcare.com
• Choose a Pediatrician that best fits your family.