Finding a Pediatrician

Getting Started Finding a pediatrician often starts with talking to friends and family in the area who are parents as well. Talking to people you trust and gaining some insight into options is always a good place to begin. Most women start searching for a pediatrician around their second trimester. Your gynecologist or obstetrician will also know of quality pediatricians in your area. Online reviews of pediatricians in your area can also help provide some insight into their pediatric practices.

Interviewing a Pediatrician Once you have come up with a list of possible pediatrician choices, the next step is to personally interview the pediatrician. Most pediatricians understand that finding a pediatrician is a very thorough process for many expectant parents. Here are some questions that may be worth asking your potential pediatricians:

1. What are office hours? Do you have a pediatrician on call? How often are you available?

2. What time is best to call with routine questions?

3. Is payment due at the visit? How do you handle insurance claims?

4. What hospital do you recommend?

5. When will you first examine my baby after birth?

6. What will my baby’s exam schedule look like?

7. What will my child’s immunization schedule look like?

8. What is the cost of pediatric care after insurance?

After Choosing a Pediatrician After making a decision on your child’s pediatrician, ask them what information they need to help get things started. Many pediatric offices these days have online health records and billing information. This makes it easier to collect, organize and access the information when the time comes. Talking with your pediatrician about a tentative timeline surrounding the birth of your child will help put you at ease and prepare the pediatrician as much as possible. Kids First Raleigh is a pediatric office that provides care for children in the Raleigh, NC area from birth into adulthood. Our pediatricians are focused on providing your child with exceptional care. For more information about our services or to schedule an expectant parent’s interview, contact us at our office.