Choosing a pediatrician for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. The right pediatrician will be a trusted partner in your child’s health journey, from newborn care to adolescence.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of finding a pediatrician, including when to start looking, what to consider, questions to ask, and when your child should have their first visit. Be sure to contact Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, Texas, to schedule a visit for your child today!
When Should I Start Looking for a Pediatrician?
Expectant parents often wonder, “When should I find a pediatrician?”
Ideally, the search for a pediatrician should begin during the third trimester of pregnancy. This allows you ample time to research, ask questions, and make an informed decision without the rush of an impending due date. Starting early ensures that you’re prepared for your baby’s care from day one.
What if I Don't Have a Pediatrician When I Give Birth?
If you don’t have a pediatrician when your baby is born, don’t panic. Hospitals, including many pediatric hospitals, typically have pediatricians on staff who can examine your newborn. However, this is a temporary solution.
All of our physicians see our own newborns at all the hospitals in the Texas Medical Center. This includes The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, The Pavilion for Women at Texas Children’s, The Methodist Hospital and Memorial Hermann Hospital. Please just let the staff and nurses in labor and delivery or at registration and we will come see your newborn!
If you deliver in a hospital outside the medical center, your obstetrician will recommend a pediatrician to see your newborn in the hospital, and then please plan to see us in 2-3 days after you are discharged, or sooner if recommended by the hospital doctor. The pediatrician you choose will be responsible for your baby’s follow-up care, including the critical first well-child visit.
Why It's Important to Find a Pediatrician Before Your Baby is Born
Finding a pediatrician before your baby is born is crucial for several reasons. First, it provides peace of mind. Knowing that your baby’s care is in the hands of a trusted professional allows you to focus on enjoying your new baby without worrying about their health.
Additionally, having a pediatrician lined up ensures that your baby will receive prompt care in those critical first days and weeks, which is vital for newborn care. This early relationship also allows your pediatrician to become familiar with your baby’s health history from the very beginning, facilitating more personalized care.
What to Consider When Looking for a Pediatrician
When searching for a pediatrician, several factors should guide your decision. Consider the following:
Location and Accessibility
Choose a pediatrician whose office is conveniently located near your home or workplace. This is especially important for frequent visits in the early months of your child’s life. Ensure the pediatrician’s office hours align with your schedule, and check if the practice offers after-hours care or a nurse hotline for urgent questions.
Credentials and Experience
It’s important to verify that the pediatrician is board certified, meaning they have completed the necessary medical school training and passed rigorous exams. You may also want to consider whether the pediatrician is part of a group practice or operates independently. Group practices often provide more flexibility with scheduling and access to multiple specialists.
Approach to Care
Each pediatrician may have a different approach to care. Some pediatricians specialize in certain areas like nutrition, behavioral health, or developmental milestones. Ask about their philosophy on topics like breastfeeding, vaccination, and holistic care to ensure it aligns with your values.
Compatibility and Communication
Your relationship with your child’s pediatrician is built on trust and communication. During initial consultations, observe how the pediatrician interacts with you. Do they take the time to answer questions thoroughly? Are they patient and approachable? It’s important to feel comfortable discussing any concerns with your baby’s pediatrician, as they will be a key member of your care team.
Questions You Should Ask a Pediatrician
All of our physicians do complimentary new-parent visits, and these are available at all our locations. When you meet with your potential pediatrician, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they’re the right fit for your family.
Here are some important questions to consider:
- What is your approach to newborn care? Understanding how the pediatrician handles the unique needs of newborns will give you confidence in their ability to care for your baby.
- Do you offer same-day appointments for sick children? Access to timely care is crucial, especially when your child is unwell.
- How do you handle after-hours emergencies? Knowing the protocol for urgent situations will help you feel prepared.
- How do you communicate with parents? Ask about how the office handles phone calls, emails, and other forms of communication. Efficient communication is key to managing your child’s health.
When Should I Take My Baby for Their First Visit with a Pediatrician?
Your baby’s first well-child visit should take place within the first week of birth, often within 2-3 days after leaving the hospital.
This initial visit allows the pediatrician to assess your baby’s overall health, monitor weight gain, and address any early concerns such as feeding or jaundice. Regular visits will be scheduled throughout your baby’s first year to monitor growth, development, and to administer vaccinations.
At What Age Should My Child Stop Seeing a Pediatrician?
Pediatricians typically care for children from birth through adolescence, usually until they reach 18-21 years of age. Some children may transition to a family doctor or an internist during their teenage years, especially if they have specific health needs that extend beyond general pediatrics.
However, many parents prefer to keep their child with a pediatrician as long as possible, given the pediatrician’s expertise in children’s health and the long-term relationship that has been established.
Personalized Care for Your Child's Health Journey
Choosing the right pediatrician is an essential step in ensuring your child’s health and well-being from infancy through adolescence. Taking the time to find a pediatrician who meets your needs and aligns with your values will give you confidence in your baby’s care and lay the foundation for a healthy future.
At Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates, we understand the importance of this decision. Our experienced, board-certified pediatricians are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to each child’s unique needs. Whether you’re an expectant parent looking for your baby’s first pediatrician or seeking a new care team for your growing child, we’re here to support your family every step of the way.
Schedule an appointment with us in the Houston area today and take the first step in securing exceptional care for your child’s health journey!
Medically reviewed by Dr. Patti Savrick
