Page 10 How To Guide • Thursday , March 13 , 2025
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Choose a Pediatrician
Choosing the Best Pediatrician for Your Child
For a child , visiting a doctor ’ s office might seem like a terrifying prospect . initial visits can make an indelible mark on children for future treatments and the cold , clinical atmosphere of most medical clinics can be an immediate source of fear .
Fortunately , pediatricians are trained not only in medical treatment for children but how to make them most comfortable during their visits . Welcoming , child-friendly waiting and exam rooms , along with caring , friendly staff work wonders on children .
if you ’ re looking for a pediatrician for your child , here are some tips on how to get started .
Recommendations
Family , friends and acquaintances will likely have recommendations about good pediatricians in your area . Parents will be happy to share about their experiences at the pediatrician ’ s office .
You can also check with your OB / GYn . they will have informed recommendations to help you select the best doctor .
don ’ t just collect one or two names . ideally , you should have a list of at least three professionals . it will help you compare and make the right selection .
if you are new to town , consider joining a local forum such as Maple Grove Moms or next door for recommendations on a great pediatrician in your neighborhood .
Insurance next , look at your insurance policy . Find out if any of the people on the list are part of your network plan . remember that children visit the doctor more frequently than adults because they catch a lot of viruses while building up their immune systems . doctors not covered by your insurance should be crossed off your list . You might also reconsider your insurance policy .
Narrowing the List it is time to arrange a “ Meet You ” visit with each physician to help you determine who will work best with your child .
Look at their office locations . they should be in a convenient location , not far from your home . You will probably visit this doctor quite often , so convenience is a big factor . consider factors such as how long did you wait on hold when you called and how quickly you could get an appointment .
When you meet with the doctor , ask about his or her philosophy . Some physicians prefer to run lots of tests . Others have a more relaxed and watchful waiting approach . collaborate with this physician to determine the best treatment for your child .
Parents who follow a holistic philosophy might have to look harder to find a doctor who is open-minded about alternative medicine . if you are interested in alternative vaccine schedules , be sure to find out if your doctor is receptive to this idea .
The Visit Bring your child along for this meeting . it will help you gauge their interaction . the doctor should make your child feel at ease . He should be patient , tolerant and friendly .
You must feel comfortable with this medical professional as well . He should take the time to answer your questions thoughtfully . inquire about their emergency and acute illness availability . if your child gets sick in the middle of the night , can you call the pediatrician or nurse ? Find out about office hours and when you need to visit the hospital instead . is the office decorated with children in mind ? is it a safe , inviting atmosphere ? does the practice use modern equipment ? are exam rooms clean ?
Many pediatricians now offer separate waiting rooms for children who are not sick . these “ well child ” waiting areas help stop the spread of viruses .
With this strategy , you should have an easier time selecting a pediatrician . choosing well now will save you time and trouble in the future .
Dr . Lisa Batchelor South Lake Pediatrics