CHECKLIST: QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR NEW PEDIATRICIAN

To begin your search, get referrals from your obstetrician/gynecologist or nurse-midwife, other parents in the neighborhood, the public affairs department at the nearest hospital, a pediatric floor nurse at a local hospital or medical center, or by checking the pediatrician referral database at the American Academy of Pediatrics (www.aap.org).

How long have you been in practice?
If you don’t have this information already, this would be the time to ask.

What is your childcare philosophy?
Talk to him about breastfeeding, circumcision, alternative medicine, vaccinations, sleep and discipline issues.

Do you have children?
It may be comforting to know if your doctor has children the same gender.

Are you part of a group practice?
If you go with a doctor in a solo practice, find out who covers when he’s away. If he’s part of a group practice, ask about the background of the other doctors. Some practices have pediatric nurse practitioners.

How long does a typical check-up last?
Ideally, at least 20 minutes.

What are the office hours?

How are emergencies handled?
Some offices accommodate same-day walk-in visits. Ask how after-hours emergencies and questions are handled.

When you’ve narrowed your choices down to two or three doctors, you’re ready to get specific questions answered. If possible, set up interviews–face-to-face meetings will give you the opportunity to get to know the doctor and his staff and to ask about office policies.