The health of a child from their first set of vaccinations through to the time when they begin working with a family doctor is very important for parents. Fear about what is normal, what is a potential health issue and even in marking the milestones of a child's development is common in both first time parents and those with several children in the family. A pediatrician that provides specialized care to kids of all ages is a great resource for the family as well as an important step in ensuring your kids have the healthiest life possible.
Ideally it is important to start looking for a pediatrician prior to the birth of the child. Often your obstetrician can provide a list of those they recommend, however, you can also consult with the state or local medical boards to find out which doctors are certified as pediatric specialists. You can also ask friends, relatives and those you trust for the names of doctors that they have used or know of. It is important to also check the physician’s professional standing and if there have been any disciplinary actions or complaints against the doctor. This information is available online through the licensing board in most areas.
Another key factor to consider is the location of the doctor's office or offices. Some pediatricians are located in clinics or hospital settings while others have private offices. Having someone that is close by is important in emergency situations or if you have reason to suspect that the child may have a congenital type of health condition. By having a treating physician within a short drive you will have less stress in getting to appointments, after all, if you have to go all the way across a major town or city a simple appointment can turn into a very lengthy event.
When interviewing the prospective doctor there are several things to keep in mind. The first is your comfort level with the specialist. He or she should be warm and caring and also willing to answer your questions and ensure that you have the information that you need. Typically, if the initial meeting seems rushed and you are given little time, this may be the treatment you and your child will receive every time you have an appointment. The staff in the outer office or clinic area should be child friendly and accommodating and you shouldn't have a long wait to get to meet the doctor.
In the best possible situation both parents should meet with the pediatrician for the initial interview. Prepare a list of questions and keep track of how the various doctors that you speak with answer. Many doctors now have very informative websites with their experience, qualifications and medical certifications, but remember that they are also not going to mention any possible deficits in these areas on their own website. Checking out information with another source such as an online listing of doctors and their qualifications is a great way to ensure the information on the website is accurate.
If there is a concern that the child may have a congenital or inherited health condition there are pediatricians that specialize in different medical areas. Your family doctor or current specialists can provide information on specializations and help you find the correct match. It is also important to consider the doctor's gender as when children get older they typically are more comfortable with a doctor that is the same gender as they are, particularly in the teen years.
Sandy Winslow shares ideas about keeping your kids safe and healthy. Selecting a pediatrician for your child is an important step in ensuring your peace of mind with regards to preventative care and treatment of illness.
