Choosing a doctor for your child can feel like an overwhelming process. Here are questions to ask a pediatrician, so you can select the right provider for your family.
It’s hard enough finding a doctor for yourself! Searching for a pediatrician can be daunting, whether you’re choosing your baby’s first doc or switching providers for an older child.
You don’t have to rely solely on reviews or word of mouth, though. Set aside time with potential candidates and ask them the following questions. Their answers can give you insight into how they give care, and whether they’re a right match for your kiddo.
Getting to know the doctor
Not all doctors practice the same way! These questions will help you get to know the provider:
- “Are you board-certified?”
- “How long have you been in practice?”
- “What are your hospital affiliations?”
- “Why did you become a pediatrician?”
- “Do you have any specific specializations (i.e., kids with special needs, etc)?”
- “What are your views on medications like antibiotics?”
- “What are your views on breastfeeding?”
- “What are your views on vaccinations?”
- “How do you handle kids that are scared of the doctor?”
- “How do you handle anxious parents, or parents with PPA/PPD?”
Getting to know the practice
Remember — you’re hiring the practice, too! These questions will give you a sense of how the office runs:
- “What are your office hours?”
- “Do you have an after-hours emergency line?’
- “Do you have nurses on staff?”
- “Are you a group practice? Will different physicians/nurses see my child if you’re not available?”
- “What is the protocol for sick vs. well visits? Are there separate waiting rooms?”
- “Do you have early morning, after work, and weekend appointments available?”
- “Can I ask questions by email?”
- “How long do you take for visits?”
- “What’s the typical wait time for an appointment?”
- “Can I request same-day appointments if my child is ill?”
Logistics
You may love a doctor and their practice, but certain aspects make visits difficult. Be sure to think about these logistics before making a final decision:
- “Do you accept my insurance?”
- “Is there ample parking?”
Your own observations
While you may not ask these questions directly to a provider, they’re important to answer for yourself:
- How close is the office to your home or work, or your child’s school?
- Is the office located on a route with heavy traffic?
- Are the doctors and staff warm and welcoming?
- Are the doctors and staff patient and knowledgable?
- Is the office decorated in a child-friendly way?
- Are the doctors and staff using current, modern equipment?
Not every response may be a slam dunk, but you should be mostly satisfied with how your potential pediatrician answers these questions. Don’t be afraid to “shop around” and find the physician that instils a sense of confidence. Your pediatrician should feel like a part of your team, and someone you would feel comfortable going to for any reason.