Finding a Pediatrician
As you may already know, you need to line up a pediatrician while you’re Rill pregnant. There is still no perfect, foolproof way to find the ideal doctor. Most people either use the Yellow Pages or rely on the recommendations of friends. Take recommendations, but know that people are at :tart a tad lazy and don’t relish change. Breanna stayed with her baby’s doctor even though she didn’t like him because it was “easier than finding a new one.”
Call local hospitals where pediatricians have privileges and get some -times. Nurses are great sources of information. Local lactation centers usually know all the pediatricians in town who are good and who support breastfeeding, and La Leche League can give you names, too. Once you have a few names, make appointments to interview the doctors on your list. Most doctors won’t charge for this, but some do, so make sure you ask in advance. Helen was surprised to be presented with a bill for $100 for a consultation. Most pediatricians are used to being interviewed ahead of time. If you find one who doesn’t do this, cross him or her off your list.
Find out the doctor’s academic credentials and whether the doctor is board-certified. Is this doctor a member of any professional organizations? Does he or she teach at any local academic institution? But also trust your gut instincts. Would you feel comfortable “bothering” this person on a Saturday or after office hours? Solo practitioners can be fine, as long as they have someone who covers for them when they’re not available. No matter whom you chose, make sure there’s always a doctor available by phone and after hours. Babies have this uncanny sense of timing and usually pick weekends and after-business-hours to get sick.
Does the doctor encourage you to call with questions? Will he or she actually take your call? Will he or she see you promptly if you sense a problem? Look for a doctor who is gentle, makes eye contact, and spends some time with you during your interview. He or she should answer all of your questions patiently. If the doctor seems impatient with your questions, this is likely how-you’ll be treated during office visits with your child. Going to the doctor does have some of the feel of a three-ring circus. You’ll be distracted, and it’s hard enough to take care of your child and get your questions in, let alone remember the answers. If the doctor barely disguises his or her annoyance at the amount of time you’re taking up, move on. You want a doctor who will talk to your child and give you thorough,understandable explanations.