Will you be bringing home a newborn soon? You’re likely immersed in preparations and considering a wide variety of parental issues right now: whether to breastfeed or use formula, whether to use disposable or cloth diapers, whether to swaddle or not, and many others. One of the things you may want to decide sooner rather than later is who your child’s pediatrician will be.

Do I have to have a pediatrician? Can my child just see our family physician?

Family physicians are primary care doctors for patients of all ages and genders. Their residency includes pediatrics in addition to various other medical fields. They are obviously qualified to care for children. However, because a family physician’s practice serves a broad range of patient types, this type of provider will not spend as much time caring for children as a pediatrician does. Medical training in pediatrics focuses on the healthcare needs of children from birth until adulthood. Both types of providers receive years of medical training, but pediatricians focus specifically on children. This focus frequently gives them an understanding of children’s health needs that includes not just general health, but behavioral issues and development. If your child was born prematurely, with a birth defect, or other health challenges, it is often helpful to have a pediatrician monitoring their well-being.

How do I pick a pediatrician?

You can find a pediatrician before your child is born by asking for recommendations from your obstetrician or from friends and family. You can find providers on your insurance plan by searching on your insurance company’s website. There are numerous reviewing sites for healthcare providers online, as well. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also offers a “Find a Pediatrician tool” on their website. (Obviously, since you are reading this blog, we would like to invite you to review Dr. Leung’s many positive patient testimonials on Google Reviews, Facebook, and other review outlets!)

What does “board-certified” mean?

Doctors have the option to take exams to be “board-certified” in their field at the end of their residency. These certification examinations are quite rigorous and are set by the governing body in a field of medicine. Pediatricians are certified by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

How do I find out more about a pediatrician I am considering?

Some pediatricians are willing to schedule a consultation or interview. Please check with your insurance company to find out if this visit would be covered by your plan. Dr. Leung is happy to offer a complimentary prenatal visit with expecting parents. This gives you time to meet Dr. Leung and our pediatric staff to make sure we are a good fit. Parents-to-be are able to ask questions about planning and caring for a new baby. It also allows our staff to learn about you: your pregnancy, your medical and family history, and your goals, so that we can provide better support to you and your growing family.

What should I keep in mind when evaluating a pediatrician’s office?

Take note of the office’s appearance during your consultation. Is it clean? Orderly? Child-friendly? Is there a separate waiting area for sick children? Is the staff friendly and helpful to patients in the waiting area or on the phone?

If you’re so inclined, chat with other parents while waiting for your appointment. Ask them what they like about this practice. People generally love to share their experiences – good and bad!

Factors to consider:

• What are the office hours?
• Is this a group practice or a solo provider? If there is one provider, how will your child be cared for if your pediatrician is not available? If it’s a group practice, who will oversee your child’s care if your pediatrician is not available?
• Is the pediatrician affiliated with a nearby hospital or pediatric hospital?
• How are after-hours emergencies handled?
• Are you able to view your child’s test results or get other health information online?

Your consultation

In addition to the points mentioned above, be sure to discuss any issues that are important to you and take notes. Does the doctor have views that complement yours regarding issues like breast-feeding, circumcision, alternative or holistic options, vaccinations, or antibiotic use? Are you able to call the office with questions for your doctor during office hours? Will a nurse or physician’s assistant be available to answer questions? Is it possible to email this provider?

After your visit, think about your experience at the office. Did the doctor seem to be a good listener? Did he or she give thorough explanations to your questions? Did you get a sense that this office was a good fit for your family?

It’s very helpful to have your child’s healthcare provider selected before your baby is born. Knowing you have support and care for your child’s health in place will provide you with peace of mind as you begin the adventure called parenthood.