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Choosing a Pediatrician
Caring for your little one will naturally be one of your biggest concerns. We will follow up in some later articles with immunization information and tips in subsequent articles, but right now let's discuss how to go about choosing a good pediatrician for your baby. Here are a few tips:
- Usually your best bet is to go with a pediatrician who comes recommended by a friend or family member. Talk to someone whos opinion you trust and who has had first hand experience.
- Find a doctor with whom you feel comfortable with personality-wise and has good communication skills. Finding a doctor who is patient and listens to all your concerns is very important. Try and start your search early in your pregnancy - ahead of your baby's birth.
- Be sure that you are comfortable with the office staff as well. Remember that your baby will spend a great deal of time with the nurses, medical assistants and/or other medical support staff. Check out the office atmosphere. Even the staff dress can give you some indication of the type of office it is.
- Believe it or not, location is important because you will be making many trips. We live in very busy and stressed times, so time is a factor. Make sure that the pediatrician's office is fairly close by.
- One of the best ways to "feel out" a prospective doctor is to go with some prepared questions and see if his/her philosophies closely mirror your own.