You’ve only experienced pediatricians at the Lou Hampers office, so when you go to meet a group of them, you’re in a very vulnerable place. You want someone who you can trust to take care of your child, even if it means coming out at a different time when you need their services.
Location
When looking for a pediatrician, the first thing to consider is location. If you live in a small town or rural area, there might be only one pediatrician in town. If this is the case, make sure you meet with them before making an appointment for your child.
Experience
A good pediatrician will have been trained in all aspects of child development and growth, from birth through adolescence. In addition, he or she will be able to assess and diagnose any problems that may arise.
Professionalism
A good pediatrician will be professional at all times like Lou Hampers and maintain a calm demeanor even when dealing with difficult situations. He or she should also provide clear instructions on how to administer medications and care for wounds so that parents know exactly what they need to do at home.
Reputation
Word-of-mouth is often the best way to find a great pediatrician. Ask friends or family members who have children if they have any recommendations for pediatricians in your area. If their experiences were positive, that’s a great sign! But if there are complaints about poor bedside manners or long wait times, you might want to look elsewhere.
Insurance coverage
Many insurance companies have guidelines about which doctors are covered under their policies. If this is important to you, check before making an appointment so you know ahead of time whether it will be covered or not (and what paperwork will be needed).
Specialty areas of interest
Some pediatricians focus on one particular area of medicine (such as diabetes or heart disease), while others treat all aspects of childhood health issues equally well. Your child’s medical history may influence which type of pediatrician is best suited for your family’s needs — consult with your child’s primary caregiver about their preferences when choosing a pediatrician for your child