How to Choose a Pediatrician
one of the helpful tidbits was this:
Quote:
Perform A Quick Background Check On The Pediatrician
Start with a list of a few good candidates and narrow it down to your final choice. Before you interview a pediatrician you can check with the Federation Of State Medical Boards (FSMB) to see if there have been any serious disciplinary actions, or professional peer reviews against the pediatrician. The FSMB Website has links to your state, or you can call them at 1-817-868-4000 to get the number for your state board. You can also get consumer advocate books from the Director of Public Citizen's Health Research Group that keep track of doctors that have been disciplined by a state or the federal government. Get a copy of the List Of "Books Of Questionable Doctors" book, organized by state.
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Questions to Ask the Pediatrician
Pediatrician Background, Credentials, Experience
When and where did the pediatrician complete medical school and residency?
Are they a member of the American Academy Of Pediatrics or any other specialty organization?
How long has the pediatrician been in practice?
Does the pediatrician have any areas of subspecialty?
What hospitals does the pediatrician have privileges at?
How soon after the baby is born will the pediatrician come to see it at the hospital?
How does the pediatrician feel about mothers calling in after hours over "little things"?
Is there a specific time during the day that the doctor will take phone calls?
Office Logistics
Is the office conveniently located for less travel time with a sick child? Does the practice have multiple offices you can visit?
What are the office hours and are there any early morning or late evening hours for working parents?
How long in advance must you book appointments?
Are there any diagnostic facilities on site such as X-rays, blood work, etc.?
What lab work can be performed at the pediatrician's office?
Is there a specific time during the day that the doctor will take phone calls, and how does the office handle your phone in questions?
Does the doctor answer any general questions by email?
How does the office deal with after hours emergencies?
Is there a 24 hour answering services that can connect you to a doctor?
Who covers for the doctor when they are on vacation?
Does the office mail out reminders for scheduled immunizations and checkups?
Fees, Methods of Payment
How much are the fees for standard office visits?
Are immunization shots extra, or are they included in the office visit charge?
Does the pediatrician accept your insurance?
How are insurance claims handled, and will the pediatrician bill your insurance company directly.
Do they accept checks and credit cards?
Is payment due at the time visit, or will the pediatrician bill you?
What happens if you miss a scheduled visit? Can you easily reschedule?
If you aren't getting recommendations, which is the best way to find a doctor, your instincts are your next best thing.