How to Choose the Best Pediatrician for Your Newborn: 5 Key Tips
Expect several visits in year one — choose wisely
Expect several visits in year one — choose wisely
Choosing a pediatrician for your newborn is one of the most important decisions you will make as a new parent.
Pediatricians are doctors who specialize in caring for infants, children and teens up to age 18. They become a trusted partner in your child’s health, offering expert guidance on everything from feeding and growth to vaccines and common illnesses.
During your baby’s first year, you’ll visit the pediatrician’s office at least seven times for routine well-baby checkups. You may need additional visits for unexpected concerns like colds and fevers. That’s why it’s best to choose a pediatrician before your baby is born — so you’re prepared from day one.
“Parents need to feel they can trust their pediatrician and that the doctor will consider how they want to care for their child,” says Gurinder Dabhia, MD, a pediatrician at Scripps Clinic Rancho Bernardo.
It’s important not to skip any appointments for your child, especially newborns. “You do not want your children to fall behind on their vaccinations, physical exams and screenings during their early development,” Dr. Dabhia says.
Early pediatric care protects your newborn from serious illnesses and helps build a strong immune system through timely vaccines.
Well-child visits
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends regular checkups for infants and young children, with in-person visits especially important for those 24 months and younger. While video visits can be useful in certain situations, in-office care is essential during early development.
Here are five tips to help you choose the right pediatrician for your newborn.
1. Do your research
Make sure the pediatrician accepts your health insurance and is accepting new patients. Scripps has a wide network of pediatricians across San Diego County and accepts most insurance plans.
One of the best ways to begin your search is by asking trusted friends or family members who they recommend. Their experiences can help guide your decision.
As you review potential pediatricians, consider these factors:
- Location of pediatric office
- Office hours and weekend availability
- Options for after-hours care
AAP recommends expectant parents meet with their chosen pediatrician before the baby is born. This early visit helps build trust and gives you a chance to ask questions about your baby’s care in the first days, weeks and months.
2. Verify credentials and experience
Take time to learn about each pediatrician you are considering, including training and experience. Board-certified pediatricians have completed specialized training after medical school and passed a rigorous exam from the American Board of Pediatrics.
3. How accessible is the pediatrician’s office?
It’s reassuring to know your pediatrician is easy to reach when concerns come up. Look for a practice that offers:
- An online patient portal for messaging, scheduling and test results
- Clear after-hours support, including who to call and where to go if your infant needs urgent care
- Same-day appointments when your child needs to be seen quickly
Infants under 3 months with a fever should be seen immediately. That’s why it’s important to know if an on-call provider is available by phone or online.
4. Find out if you connect well
Most pediatricians offer complimentary prenatal visits where you can meet the doctor and about their style and philosophy of care.
“Ask as many questions as you need to be sure you’re picking the right doctor for your family,” Dr. Dabhia says. “Your pediatrician will be your partner and advisor when caring for your new baby. You want to have confidence that your own approach to caring for your child is always considered.”
For instance, there are many different methods of helping a baby learn to fall and stay asleep through the night. You may have reservations about letting your baby “cry it out.” You need to feel that you can talk to your pediatrician honestly and find another method to try.
5. Watch how your doctor interacts with your child
During your baby’s first checkups, pay attention to how the pediatrician connects with them. A gentle, patient approach can help your baby feel calm and begin building trust.
“Most pediatricians choose this specialty because we are passionate about children and managing their health,” says Dr. Dabhia. “But during your first few visits, assess how your doctor interacts with your child to ensure it’s a good fit.”
Since your child will see their pediatrician regularly as they grow, it’s important to choose someone they feel safe and comfortable with from the very beginning.