Taking care of your baby sounds simple, right? In reality, taking care of a newborn baby can be quite challenging especially if you are a first-time mom and you do not have anyone to guide you through the whole process. It becomes even more complicated if you happen to be a working mom. One of the ways you can cope with the situation is by getting the services of a pediatrician.
Choosing a pediatrician is something that you should not put off until you have given birth. In fact, most pediatrics professional recommend getting a pediatrician when you are already on the 24th week of your pregnancy. This would allow you ample time to go through various pediatricians in your area and check out which one you are comfortable with. This also means that you do not have to worry about it once the baby is with you.
Now, when choosing a pediatrics professional, you need to make sure that you do your research. Get referrals from your relatives and friends, and check if they are covered by your insurance. From this list, make sure that you shorten it by choosing those that are near your home. Doing so would ensure that you do not have to travel much when bringing your baby for his or her appointment.
Once you have a shortlist, make sure that you meet each one personally. Before you set up a parental visit, however, make sure you check if the pediatrician would charge you for the consultation. Now, some of the things that you might want to discuss would include the pediatrician’s view and practices on breastfeeding, vaccination, and child rearing. While you’re at it, you should also check the availability of the doctor even for midnight visits.
When you have made your decision, do not forget to inform your pediatrician about the expected delivery date. Depending on what you and your pediatrician have agreed on, your pediatrician will visit your baby to check on his or her health.
In case you, later on, realize that things are not working out well with the pediatrician, make sure that you discuss this with him or her. Keep in mind that your relationship with your pediatrician would not be smooth always. If you and your doctor cannot reach a compromise, consider changing pediatricians. Let your current doctor know about your plans and have him or her transfer the records of your child to the new pediatrician.
Sources:
(Choosing a doctor for your baby, www.babycenter.com)
(How to Select a Pediatrician, www.parents.com)