Choosing Your Baby Pediatrician.

My friend told me that I should pick my baby's pediatrician before the baby is born. Is this true?
Yes. You can interview a pediatrician to help you build the right partnership for your child's health and well-being. Talk with the pediatrician about the care of your baby, ask questions about feeding and receive some guidelines about dealing with a new baby.

How do I find a pediatrician?
Ask your doctor, friends, co-workers and family members for references to pediatricians they know and trust. If you cannot find one that way, contact your local medical society and ask for a reference.

When should I arrange a visit?
It's usually most beneficial to visit the pediatrician 3 or 4 weeks before your due date. If the baby comes early, you will have already made these arrangements.

Should I take the baby's father with me to this visit?
It's a good idea for both of you to visit the pediatrician. Your partner may have some questions. This is the perfect time for the two of you to sit down and discuss your concerns with your baby's doctor.

Why is it important to find a pediatrician before the birth?
It's important to meet this person under calm circumstances, to discuss the doctor's philosophy, to learn his or her schedule and to clarify what you can expect of this physician. When your baby is born, the pediatrician will be notified so he or she can come to the hospital and check the baby. If you select a pediatrician before the birth, your baby will see the same doctor for follow-up visits in the hospital and at the doctor's office.

What other things should we consider when selecting a pediatrician?
Some issues can be resolved only by analyzing your feelings after your visit. Below is a list of questions you and your partner might want to discuss after your visit.
•    Are the doctor's philosophies and attitudes acceptable to us, such as use of antibiotics and other medications, childrearing practices or medically related religious beliefs?
•    Did the doctor listen to us?
•    Was he or she genuinely interested in our concerns?
•    Did the physician appear interested in developing a rapport with our expected child?
•    Is this a person we feel comfortable with and with whom our child will be comfortable?

What if we belong to an HMO and cannot choose a particular physician?
It's still a good idea to meet your baby's pediatrician before your baby is born. If you have a conflict or don't see eye to eye on important matters, you may be able to choose another pediatrician within the practice. Ask your patient advocate for information and advice.