subject: Choosing The Best Pediatrician For Your Child [print this page] Did you have a child recently? Are you unhappy with your child's doctor? In this article we'll show you how to choose a pediatrician that's right for your child.
The first place to start is simple. You'll need to create a list of pediatricians who pratice in your area. There are a couple ways to go around this. First, you should speak with family or friends and ask them for recommendations. Second, you can contact the American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) and find a list of those closest to you. Third, local hospitals, municipalities, medical universities and sometimes schools all possess up to date lists of practicing pediatricians in the area. You can utilize them as good sources to find the best for your child.
After compiling a list of doctors, you ought to do a little research on the internet to determine which of the doctors stand out from the rest. You can usually find such information as their education background and training, awards, and specialties. Sometimes doctors even have their own website where this information, along with general biographical information, is offered.
After you have finished with the preliminary research, the next step is scheduling consultations with a couple of pediatricians you have chosen. During these consultations you should ask the doctors a few basic questions. For instance, you could inquire about their medical philosophy and see if they rush from patient to patient. You can also determine if the doctors use clear and concise language, instead of medical terminology, when explaining procedures and illnesses. Also, you want to make sure that your child will feel comfortable about the doctor. So see if one of them emits more warmth and seems more easy going and relaxed around kids than the other.
After choosing a pediatrician, you should schedule regular appointments with him or her, regardless if your child is ill, so they can get familiar with your child. This is also a great way to build an ongoing relationship between you and your child's doctor based on trust and openness. If at any time you wish that they are not giving you a candid assessment of your child's health or if they aren't providing the best advice, then it's advisable to start searching for another pediatrician. Remember, there are many experienced practicing pediatricians out there who are eager and ready to serve you and your child. You just have to choose the best one for you.
