Pediatric Services

Choices

Choosing a pediatrician

Pediatricians have chosen to specialize in the care of children and adolescents. Because all pediatricians and health care providers have different styles of practice, consider these points in helping you find the best fit for your own personality and beliefs:

• What are the doctors' credentials and experience?
• Where did he/she go to medical school?
• Is he/she board certified?
• How long has he/she been in practice?
• Which hospital is he or she affiliated with?
• Are there evening and weekend office hours?
• Does the practice accept my insurance?
• Is it a small practice or a large group?
• If it’s a large group, are you comfortable with the other physicians in the group?
• If it’s a small group, who covers during evenings and weekends?
• Are there nurse practitioners in the practice, and what is their role in your child's care?
• If you need to speak with the doctor or nurse on the phone, how long it takes to get a response and who calls back?
• Does the doctor have a particular subspecialty interest in pediatrics?
• What is the doctor’s position on breastfeeding, and is it in agreement with yours?
• How much do visits cost?
• Is payment expected at the time of the visit?
• What sort of payment is accepted?
• Will the office bill your insurance company directly?
• How soon after your delivery will the doctor check your baby?

To start your search, call Yale-New Haven Physician Referral at (203) 688-2000 for assistance in finding a pediatrician who will meet your needs or search our online physician database yourself.

Meet the pediatrician
Some doctors and health care providers will meet with you beforehand to get acquainted. Ask if there is a charge for this meeting. It may be helpful to bring a list of questions with you. Obviously, this is just one meeting, but it gives you a sense of the doctor's personality and style of practice. Notice how the doctor communicates with you. Does he/she freely offer information and advice? Also, observe how the nurses and office staff treat people. Pay attention to see if people are left waiting a long time for appointments. Remember, this extra step can really pay off in helping you and your child develop a rewarding relationship with your health care provider.

Reviewed: Greg Germain, MD, December 1999
Last revised: May 25, 2007 (dh)

Home page URL: http://www.ynhh.org

All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.