As experts in obstetrics and gynecology, Atlanta Women's Specialists believes that an informed patient is an empowered patient. So we have made patient education a top priority. Look here for your guide to the most accurate information available on- and offline.
What to Ask Your Pediatrician
Selecting a pediatrician for your soon-to-be-born baby is an important decision. We recommend that you select one by the time you reach 30 weeks gestation. If you never selected a pediatrician for a child before, we have some helpful information for you.
If you don't know where to begin, ask one of our nurses for a list of pediatricians we recommend. Our list includes physicians with locations all over the Atlanta area.
Most pediatricians have time set aside so that you can actually go to their office to interview them before you make a decision. Another good resource is friends or neighbors. Selecting a pediatrician at 30 weeks gestation will ensure your baby will be checked by the pediatrician in the hospital the day after birth.
Here are some suggested questions to ask the pediatrician when you interview them.
1. What hospitals do you use?
2. If your practice has privileges at the hospital where I plan to deliver, how soon will you visit the baby after birth?
3. State your opinion on circumcision.
4. Generally describe your first-year care plan for my baby.
5. If you are part of a group practice, do other members of the group share your philosophy?
6. What arrangements are made for emergency treatments during office hours and after office hours?
7. What arrangements are made to return phone calls during the weekday, weekend, and after hours?
8. What are your fees for a scheduled routine visit; for follow-up visits; and for the in-hospital visit after delivery?
9. How do you feel about breastfeeding? Do you recommend feeding on a schedule or on demand? If I choose to bottle-feed my baby, how long do you recommend?
10. When do you recommend introducing my baby to solid foods?
11. How do you feel about prescribing medications over the phone?
12. What reading material do you recommend to assist me in caring for my baby?
13. Does your office supply any pamphlets on childcare and development?
After the interview, spend some time with your partner thinking about the visit, your sense of rapport, and how your questions were answered. Remember, the pediatrician you choose is being entrusted to care for the physical and mental well being of your child for possibly the next eighteen years.
We'll be happy answer additional questions you have regarding selecting a pediatrician. If you have a My Health Record account, submit a question to a nurse or provider via web message. You can also call and ask to speak with one of our obstetrical nurses.
