Finding the right pediatrician for your baby is a major decision. While it maybe easy to be overwhelmed with the options available to you, remember that a little time and effort will go a long way in terms of finding a pediatrician you can trust. Here are some things to look for:

Referrals and Recommendations

When it comes to finding a good pediatrician, it is always a good sign to receive positive recommendations and referrals from trusted family, friends, co-workers, and other doctors.

Clinic Hours

Clinic hours are a particularly important factor for parents who are at work during the week. If you are usually unavailable during office hours, search for a pediatrician who holds clinic after office hours, such as in the evenings or during weekends. Also determine if you need to schedule appointments or if he or she allows same-day visits.

Availability and Emergencies

What happens if your baby is sick while the office is closed, or if you have questions in both emergency and non-emergency situations? Can your pediatrician be contacted through mobile phone or email?

Shared Views and Opinions

As a parent, you will most certainly have opinions on all decisions concerning your child. It would be best to find a pediatrician who shares your opinions on breastfeeding, circumcision, immunization, antibiotics, sleep training, and parenting techniques.

Trustworthy

Of course, look for a pediatrician you get along with and can trust with your child’s life. A pediatrician’s credentials may look good on paper, but if you aren’t comfortable in his or her presence, then you better go with someone else.