WORDS BY RACHAEL DUPREE
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YOUR B ABY'S PEDIATRICIAN Selecting a pediatrician for your child is an important decision and one that parents shouldn’t take lightly.
Whether you’re expecting a baby, new to town or unhappy with your previous provider, finding a pediatrician for your child is likely one of the items high on your to-do list. Having a pediatrician you see regularly not only helps you track your child’s developmental milestones, it’s essential to be established with a practice so that you have a provider familiar with your child’s history when health concerns arise. With so many pediatric options available, beginning the search can be daunting. There are medical doctors, osteopathic doctors and nurse practitioners; pediatric-specific practices and family practices; providers focusing on traditional healthcare and those with more holistic approaches. As you begin to sift through your options, here are some questions to consider.
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Are They Recommended? Asking pediatrician recommendations from friends or family members who share your health values is a great way to focus your search. With a few names in hand, you can do further research to see if any of the recommendations are a good fit for your family. First, check out the provider’s website for basic information and then schedule a consultation interview for a more intimate look at the practice, keeping in mind that even a provider who comes highly recommended by someone you trust doesn’t necessarily make them the right one for your family.
Where are They Located? Think through the times of day you’re likely to be visiting the pediatrician and where you’ll be during that time, whether that’s work, home, or your child’s school or daycare facility. When your child is sick, you want access to be easy.
