When you’re getting ready for a new arrival, one of the most important decisions is finding a pediatrician who feels right for your family. “It’s okay if it feels overwhelming at first,” says Riya Raju, MD, FAAP, pediatric attending physician at Cooper University Health Care and assistant professor of pediatrics at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden. “Your child will see their pediatrician frequently in the first year of life for well visits and any unexpected illnesses, so this is a relationship built on trust, comfort and open communication.”
Of course, you’ll need to check with your insurance company to find a doctor who’s in your plan, but you should also do some asking around. “One way is to speak with friends, neighbors and relatives who have young children,” says Michael Lucas, MD, medical director of the Pediatric Health Center at Saint Peter’s Family Health Center in New Brunswick. “It’s helpful to ask about their experiences with the pediatrician, their staff, the appointment process, accessibility, and other factors.”
Other than word of mouth, you also can talk to your own medical care team. “Your OB/GYN or midwife have experience in real life,” says Hanan Tanuos, MD, FAAP, associate professor of pediatrics and director of Pediatric Primary Care at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. “These are already people you trust and have a relationship with, so that can be helpful in guiding your decision.”
Here’s what else you need to think about when you’re searching for a pediatrician:
WHEN TO START LOOKING FOR A PEDIATRICIAN
There’s no set answer, but most doctors recommend searching a few months before your due date. “This gives you enough time to research local practices, confirm insurance coverage, and schedule prenatal meet-and-greet visits,” says Raju. These are in-office visits where you meet the doctor in person to get a sense of the provider’s style and overall practice environment. These visits are strongly recommended because you’ll get a firsthand feel for the practice and staff.
In some cases, you may want to start the search process earlier. “There are times when the gestation does not last a full 39-40 weeks, so it is important to choose a pediatric office well in advance should the child be delivered early,” says Lucas. “It might also be very helpful to begin the process earlier if there are any known complications with the pregnancy or with the infant based on prenatal testing. This way, the approach to the infant following the delivery can be anticipated and mapped out well before the delivery.”
WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A DOCTOR?
There are lots of practical considerations when choosing a physician for your child. When looking for providers, ask about routine office hours, how you make appointments (by phone or online), how to be seen for urgent or sick visits, and whether there are evening or weekend appointments.
“The office proximity to your home is important,” says Tanuos. “Logistical considerations, such as how close parking is, are important, too.” For example, the importance of those logistics become clear when you’re lugging a car seat in the snow.
In addition, ask about hospital affiliations and whether there’s access to a pediatric ER or specialists; whether the practice offers telemedicine; and the practice’s policy on no-shows, cancellations and late arrivals, says Raju.
You should also think about whether you prefer a group or a solo practice. “Group practices often offer greater flexibility for appointment hours and potentially even more than one location. Solo practices, or practices with only two pediatricians, offer the benefit of always seeing the same persons with potentially more knowledge of your child’s history,” says Lucas. “Neither is better, but understanding what approach is best for you helps in decision-making.”
Don’t forget that your experience isn’t just with the pediatrician. “It’s with the entire team,” says Raju. “Notice how staff interact with you: Are they friendly, responsive and organized? Is it easy to reach someone by phone? A supportive and efficient team can make a big difference, especially during stressful moments.”
WHY A PRENATAL VISIT IS HELPFUL
Meeting with a pediatrician before your baby is born helps you decide if you and the doctor share similar communication styles and values. “You need to feel comfortable,” says Tanuos. “You will see if they’re taking time to explain things in a way you understand.”
During the visit, you can address issues that matter most to you. “Look for someone who welcomes your questions, explains the ‘why’ behind recommendations, and practices shared decision-making,” says Raju. “A strong partnership with your pediatrician ensures your child receives safe, evidence-based care while you feel informed and supported every step of the way.”
You should ask specific questions, such as what happens if your child needs to be seen in the ER or needs to stay overnight in the hospital. Also, discuss what happens if your child needs to be referred for more specialized services, and how this is coordinated. Finally, discuss what type of education and parent support is provided, says Lucas.
HOW TO TELL IF THE PEDIATRICIAN IS RIGHT FOR YOUR FAMILY
Besides making sure the office fits your practical and logistical needs, rely on your impressions during the in-person meeting. “Pay attention to how the pediatrician listens and responds to your questions,” says Raju. “Do you feel heard, respected and comfortable asking anything? A strong pediatrician-family relationship is built on mutual trust, clear explanations, and a sense that your concerns are taken seriously. Trust your instincts—if it feels like a good fit, it probably is.”
If you don’t connect with a doctor, continue your search. “All pediatricians want families who connect with them, just as much as families want a pediatrician to connect with them,” says Lucas. “Pediatricians want the families in their care to trust their judgment, value their advice, and enjoy their interactions; thus, if you do not feel there is a connection during your initial meeting, this might not be something that will just get better over time.”
Finally, if you’ve already committed but later decide your pediatrician isn’t the best match for your family, don’t feel badly. “It’s completely okay to switch providers if the relationship doesn’t feel right,” says Raju. “Your comfort and confidence in your child’s care are essential, and there are many excellent pediatricians. Finding the right fit for your family is what matters most.”
—Arricca Elin SanSone is a New York-based health and lifestyle writer.
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