How to Find the Right Pediatrician for Your Child

One of the important decisions that you will make regarding your newborn is choosing the right doctor. After all, you can expect to go to the doctor’s office at least six times during your baby’s first year of life for routine visits. Since there are so many different options, it’s common for parents to feel overwhelmed. Here are a few tips that should help parents find the right pediatrician in New York for their child.

When Should You Start Looking for a Pediatrician?

There are some parents who know which pediatrician they want before even conceiving their child. However, many parents start searching for a pediatrician during pregnancy and make a choice when they’re about seven months into the pregnancy.

It is important for parents to decide prior to labor and delivery so that their choice is well-informed. Parents should make a list of candidates at least four months before the due date.

What Should You Look for in a Pediatrician New York?

Parents can take their baby to a family practitioner or a pediatrician. A family practitioner is a doctor who specializes in family medicine while a pediatrician is a doctor who specializes in caring for children. Many parents choose a pediatrician rather than a family practitioner for their child because these physicians have a leg up in terms of offering quality care due to their focus on children’s health. Also, pediatricians usually have more relevant experience from practicing with children every day.

An advantage of a family practitioner is that the physician can treat not just the child but the entire family from birth until old age. A family practitioner will be well-versed when it comes to health issues that impact the entire family. Genetic diseases are a common example.

Both types of doctors are a good choice. The most important thing is that you feel confident and happy with the care that your child is receiving.

How to Find Names of Pediatricians to Consider

You can ask your midwife or obstetrician for recommendations. Insurance companies, hospitals, and medical schools typically provide parents with referrals to pediatricians. If you go to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ website, you will find a list of referrals to certified practitioners. If a doctor is certified by the AAP, this indicates that the physician graduated from a medical school that is accredited, completed a residency program, and passed the pediatrics board exam.

You should also consider asking your relatives, friends, co-workers, and neighbors who have kids for recommendations. Ideally, you should ask people who have similar ideas when it comes to parenting.

For more information about how to find the right pediatrician New York for your child, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Weill Cornell Medicine.