How to Choose a Pediatrician

Lee Beers, MD, a pediatrician at Childrens Pediatricians & Associates shares tips
and information to help parents choose a pediatrician for their child. By: Mary Blair
Even before your child is born, it is important to have a pediatrician to help make
sure your child is growing and developing properly. However, finding a pediatrician
can be a stressful process, and many parents wonder exactly what they should be
looking for in a doctor. One important aspect is that he or she is a fellow of the
American Academy of Pediatrics, which means the physician is board-certified and
up-to-date with the latest medical knowledge. However, each pediatrician has a
different personality and practice style, so it is important for you to find someone
with whom you are comfortable and can discuss difficult issues.
Topics the Pediatrician Should Address

General health questions

Questions about health history
Growth and development
School performance
Emotional health
Safety (car seats, hazards in the home, sleeping positions, etc.)

What To Do If Youve Moved

Make sure you have copies of your childs medical records. These are important in
order for your new doctor to know what your child needs. If your child has special
needs or uncommon health issues, a medical summary may be helpful. Many
pediatricians can give recommendations and referrals if they know other
pediatricians in your new area, so make sure to talk with him or her about where
you are moving. Many offices will allow you to set up an appointment to meet the
physician before they begin to treat your child.
Aside from these resources, healthychildren.org has a Find a Pediatrician function
that will provide you with the names of pediatricians in your area who are boardcertified.
Scheduling
Many parents may have difficulty getting their child to the doctor during normal
business hours due to school and work schedules. If this is a problem for you, look
for a pediatrician with extended hours. At a minimum, it is important that the
practice has a way to get in touch with someone for medical advice after hours.
If You Have Adolescents

If you have teenagers, it is important that they feel comfortable talking to their
pediatrician. Many pediatricians will ask the parent to step out of the room to talk
confidentially with the adolescent. If your teen doesnt feel comfortable talking to
the physician about difficult issues, consider finding another pediatrician that your
teen does feel comfortable with to speak.