Every parent wants the best for their kids. But when you’re searching for a pediatrician, there’s no global ranking system to start with. You’re looking for the best fit for your kid—a combination of skill, bedside manner, and medical philosophy that you believe will help your child thrive and support your parenting goals for health and wellbeing.

No pressure, right?

Whether you are pregnant—perhaps doing everything about this “parent” thing for the first time—moving, or had a less-than-stellar experience with another practice, we know a lot of thought and care goes into choosing your child’s doctor. We hope that making an informed decision will lead you to a great partner in your family’s health for years to come. We’ve compiled a list of important questions to ask a pediatrician that we hope will make your choice clear.

As a pediatrician, I never tire of taking the time to talk about my practice and my philosophy. As a parent, I’ve asked these questions myself.

We recommend taking notes for each doctor that you consider. For many questions, there are no right or wrong answers, but what they say will allow you to consider if that pediatrician is a good fit, and if their practice offers what your family needs.

Questions to ask a pediatrician that you’re considering for your family

We recommend calling a prospective pediatrician’s office to verify they take your insurance before taking time to gather answers to any additional questions.

Questions that all parents should ask:

• How long have you been practicing?
• What are the office hours?
• How will we get care in the evening or on weekends, if needed?
• Which hospital are you affiliated with?
• Do you offer same-day sick appointments?
• How can I contact the office with questions? Can I email, text or use a secure app for easy communication?
• Do you have separate waiting rooms/exam rooms for sick and well patients?
• Will we be scheduled with other providers in the office? If so, where can I learn more about them?
• Does the office offer classes? What kinds?
• Why did you become a pediatrician?
• Do you have children?

Many expecting parents schedule a prenatal visit at around 6–8 months. Here are some additional questions that expecting parents should ask during that visit:

• Will you be at the hospital after we deliver?
• When will my first appointment in the office be? How do I schedule it?
• Where do you stand on _____?
  • Vaccines
  • Breastfeeding
  • Circumcision
  • Bed-sharing or co-sleeping
• What should we expect on our first visit? What do we need to bring?

Finding a great fit

Once you’ve had your questions answered by a prospective pediatrician, take time to ask yourself:

• Was I comfortable with the interactions I had with the doctor and staff?
• Were my questions answered, and was I heard?
• What were my impressions of the office?
• Was staff easy to reach and communicate with?
• Will parking or traffic be a challenge?
• What sense did I get of their practice from their social media presence?
• What kind of reviews have they received?

Gather information, then trust your instincts. You know best what your family needs! We wish you the best in your journey to raise healthy, confident kids.

Are you looking for a pediatrician in the North Attleboro, MA community? Registering with Peak Pediatric Care is easy and can be done online. Visit our Become a Patient page to begin the registration process. Please call the office if you have any questions: (508) 576-5010