Here are some things to consider when choosing a healthcare provider for your baby:
• Where is the office located in relation to you home? The ease of traveling to the office at anytime and especially in an emergency is important.
• Where does the doctor/practitioner have hospital privileges? What are the special practices, if any of the hospital’s pediatric unit? (rooming in or open visiting)
• What is the size and makeup of the practice? How long do you have to wait to obtain an appointment?
• Who are the other persons who may be associated with the physician, another physician you might see or pediatric nurse practitioner associate who can answer many of the daily parental concerns? Is there a phone hour?
• What are the arrangements for covering emergency calls, including night and weekends? • What are the accepted insurances?
• What are the physicians/practitioners views on infant feeding? (For Breastfeeding :Do they support breastfeeding, have a lactation consultant on staff. )
• What is the expected schedule for well care?
• Ask your friends or trusted neighbors what they think of their pediatric care provider.
• Discuss his/her views on immunizations and circumcision.
Since these are suggested guidelines, you may have some other criteria upon which you are making your decision. Review your feelings to the information you receive. Your selection will be based on favorable responses to those criteria that you feel are most important. Remember, in the end the parents and the child are the clients. If you are not satisfied, find another provider!