How to Choose a Pediatrician: Questions Pregnant Moms Need to Ask Before Baby Arrives by Rachael Daniels CPNP-PC, CLC


How to Choose a Pediatrician: Questions Pregnant Moms Need to Ask Before Baby Arrives

For many couples caring for a newborn baby can be scary, so it is important to have someone you trust guiding you along the way. Here are some important questions to ask when choosing your new baby's pediatrician (if you choose well, they will be in your life for 21 years!). Hint: make sure the office takes your insurance plan before scheduling your prenatal visit. 

  • What should I expect during the first visit? (The first visit is usually scheduled when Baby is 3 to 5 days old.)
  • Do you support breastfeeding and is there a lactation specialist in the office?
  • How late is the clinic open and is there a doctor or nurse practitioner (NP) on call after hours?
  • Are there Saturday hours in case I need to bring my baby in on the weekend?
  • Are there separate sick and well waiting areas?
  • What does the vaccine schedule look like? Will you be following the CDC vaccination guidelines or do you have an office policy that guides the schedule? 
  • Will my baby have the same provider or does it change a lot?
  • How long will you allow for my baby's appointments?

Be sure to write down any additional questions you want to ask. 

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Elisa Schmitz
This is so helpful, Rachael Daniels CPNP-PC, CPEN ! I remember having so many questions but not sure where to start. One more question I had with my son was about circumcision. What is their view? Thank you for this!
Rachael Daniels CPNP-PC, CLC
Yes that is a popular one, and as a pediatric provider; it really is a personal choice. It is based on so many things, there really is no medical reason to circumcise; but we get that question too! I do wish that families would prepare more for the newborn period; everyone is so excited about the pregnancy, they often forget that there is this little life to take care of forever! It is a scary time but doesn't have to be if you have the right provider to listen, answer questions, and provide the support you need.
Ann Marie Patitucci
Thanks, Rachael Daniels CPNP-PC, CPEN . This is so helpful, especially coming from a Nurse Practitioner!
TUNNEL VISION GOGGLES
The post are plenty of questions you still need to agree on as a couple and it's best to do it now, partly because you won't have time to think once your newborn ..
Rohan Bhatt
Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful information !!!! It is so appreciated!! You have good humor in your thread. So much helpful and easy to read!
Rohan Bhatt
Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful information !!!! It is so appreciated!! You have good humor in your thread. So much helpful and easy to read!
Ervin Ahbabovic
Thanks for sharing such information
DAC Developments
Great article with good advice. Thanks

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