Pediatricians
How do I know which pediatrician is right for me?
by the Babble Staff
November 30, 2006
Pediatricians
THE BABBLE TAKE
There are many choices to be made when it comes to picking a doctor for your baby. As usual, it pays to be well informed. Experts agree that the best time to start thinking about a doctor for your child is during pregnancy, and that the best time to choose is in the final months before your baby is born. Most childcare sources suggest you begin by asking friends and family if they know any good doctors. Nurses, midwives and other hospital staff can also be of help. Things to consider before picking a doctor, according to the articles below, include insurance coverage, location, office hours and privileges. Babycenter® and Web MD suggest visiting and talking to various doctors. During such visits, ask questions to make sure the doctor shares your philosophy on matters like circumcision, breastfeeding and antibiotics. Finally, all experts urge you to check your potential doctor's credentials and to look for one who is board-certified.
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About.com
"When choosing a doctor to take care of your child, it is more important to find a doctor that you trust and like, instead of going to them simply because they are a Pediatrician or a GP. [. . .] In general, the big benefit of choosing a Family Practioner is that they are able to take care of your whole family. [. . .] The benefit of seeing a Pediatrician is that you are choosing a doctor whose training was focused on taking care of children."
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BabyCenter ®
"About three months before you're due, start compiling a list of candidates. You can ask your obstetrician or midwife for recommendations, of course. Even better, get names of doctors from the real experts — friends, relatives, neighbors, and co-workers with kids who share your parenting and life philosophies."
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iVillage
"With the changes in health care in the U.S., unfortunately, who you choose may be limited by the health insurance you have. However, with some introspective thought about what you would like in a pediatrician and some checking around with friends, family, etc., you can usually decide on a pediatrician who is also a provider on your insurance plan."
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Web MD
"Experts say it's a good idea to actively look for a doctor that is not only competent but is agreeable to you. After all, this person will be your health care soul mate — the one you will call at 2 a.m. when the little one has a high fever and won't stop crying. You'll need to feel comfortable enough with this doctor to discuss your kid's ailments, immunizations, thumb sucking, bed-wetting, and changes during puberty."
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Baby Zone
"Understanding how doctors become pediatricians is a good place in which to begin your quest. Specialists in pediatrics spend at least three years studying children's health problems. Many then devote additional years to studying a specific area of pediatrics such as heart, lung, or endocrine problems."
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