Questions to ask a potential pediatrician
Use this guide to help make a critical decision in your child’s long-term health.
Although the care of your baby once they turn two, 10, or even 18 might seem like a far-off milestone during pregnancy, selecting the right pediatrician (even in these early stages) is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your child’s long-term health.
But before selecting a pediatrician, it’s important to enter your search prepared and informed to make this super-critical decision. Ask a potential pediatrician these questions below.
1. What type of services do you provide?
While it can be difficult to predict what particular services your child might need post-birth, most qualified pediatricians should be able to provide the following, according to the American Pregnancy Association:
· The ability to monitor and evaluate your child’s growth and development
· Safety tips when rearing children, as well as breastfeeding support
· Immunization administering
· The ability to detect, and treat, behavioral problems
· The ability to detect, and treat, common illnesses
· Medication prescribing
2. What are your qualifications?
A qualified pediatrician should hold a medical school degree, as well as three years of pediatric residency training. Pediatricians certified through the American Board of Pediatrics must be recertified every seven years.
3. Do you have multiple locations?
The ability to take your child to a location that’s convenient to your current whereabouts can take some stress off any late-night or last-minute illnesses or injuries.
4. What are your office hours?
Also, do you have the ability to contact the pediatrician (or someone qualified to help) beyond those office hours?
5. Do you have a call-in hour or time for questions/concerns?
Raising a child is, and shouldn’t be, a task delegated solely to one person. The right pediatrician should be available to answer any questions you have, should they arise.
Important: Make sure your baby is covered
Making sure that your new baby has health insurance is important. If you get your health coverage through your employer, please contact your employer about adding your newborn to your health insurance plan. If you purchased your health coverage individually, please call us at 1-844-BLUE-4ME (1-844-258-3463) (TTY: 711).
