Picking A Pediatrician

Being a pediatrician is more than just knowing the science behind keeping kids healthy and treating them when they are sick. A lot of my time is spent building relationships with my patients and their parents. It's important to me that my patients trust me and feel comfortable with me—and I understand that I'm not going to be the best fit for every family. Choosing a pediatrician is a very personal decision, and it comes down to many factors. Here's an article written by my colleague, Dr. Claire McCarthy, that gives tips for picking a pediatrician. 

Six questions to ask yourself

Think about the kind of doctor you would ideally like. For example:

1. Do you want a pediatrician (a doctor who specializes in the care of children), a family practitioner (a doctor who takes care of people of all ages), or a nurse practitioner (a nurse who is trained and licensed to see patients like a doctor does)?
2. Does it matter if the doctor or health care professional is a man or a woman? Would you like them to be a parent themselves? Would you prefer a younger, more energetic person or someone who is older and has more experience?
3. Does it matter if the practice is big (with possibly more resources and longer office hours) or small (allowing you to get to know all the doctors and vice versa)?
4. Do you need the office to be close by, or are you willing to travel a bit if you like the doctor/practice?
5. Do you have a child with special health care needs? If so, you'll need a doctor with some expertise in those needs.
6. What aspects of health and/or parenting do you feel strongly about and want help with? For example, breastfeeding (sadly, not all doctors know a lot about breastfeeding) or complementary/alternative medicine?

Gathering names

Once you've answered these questions and written down your "wish list," you're ready to gather names. Here are some ways to get referrals:

Check your health insurance to find doctors within your plan.

Ask around. Get recommendations from friends, neighbors, and colleagues. There are two caveats to keep in mind, however. First, because everyone's preferences are different, talk to people who would seem to share your preferences. Second, there can be a herd mentality sometimes — everybody goes to Dr. Jones for no other reason than because everybody goes to Dr. Jones.

Use the Internet. Many practices have websites, and some have "bios" of their staff. Also, you can search the websites of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians for certified doctors in your area.

Check to see if the doctors you are interested in are accepting new patients. Here's an insider tip, though: Doctors who officially aren't accepting new patients will sometimes make exceptions if you approach them directly.

Finding a Good Match

Now that you have your wish list and a list of possible names, meet each doctor and visit the office. If the doctor can't or won't meet with you, or at least talk to you on the phone, that tells you something! Be mindful that they may not have a lot of time, so ask your most important questions first. Here are some things to take note of or ask:

• First impressions are important. Is the waiting room inviting and clean? Are there lots of health education materials available? Is the staff pleasant and helpful? Is the doctor warm, welcoming, and interested in you and your questions?
• Ask the doctor about their general approach to caring for children and working with families. The question will likely be a little unexpected — and the answer may be very revealing.
• If you need the doctor to have specific expertise, ask that up front. If your child has disabilities, let the doctor know. Some doctors are more comfortable with complicated medical issues than others.
• Ask how the doctor approaches specific health and parenting issues that are important to you.

The logistics of a practice can make a difference. Here are some other questions to ask the doctor or a staff member.

• How easy is it to get an appointment for either a sick visit or checkup? Would you always be able to see your regular doctor?
• How long are the appointments — and what's the typical wait time when you have one?
• What are the office hours? Where would you go if your child needs to be seen after hours?
• Does the practice have on-site laboratory and X-rays services? If not, where would you go?
• If your child needs to be admitted to the hospital, which hospital would it be?
• If your child needs to see a specialist, to which specialists does the practice refer?

This may seem like a lot to do and ask. It is, I admit. But this approach will give you the best chance of finding the best doctor for you and your child — someone who is the guide and companion you both deserve.

Historically, the three "A's" determine choice of a physician in this order: accessibility, affability, and ability. Decide what is important to you before making a choice. Many practices with multiple doctors encourage patients to change to one of their colleagues if the fit is better. The important issue is that you find a doctor you are comfortable communicating with.

How did you choose your pediatrician? Have you been with the same doctor for a long time, or have you had to switch?

Dr. Victoria McEvoy graduated from Harvard Medical School in 1975 and is currently an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at HMS. She is the Medical Director and Chief of Pediatrics at Mass General West Medical Group. She has practiced pediatrics for almost thirty years. She has been married to Earl for thirty six years and raised four children. She currently enjoys writing, traveling, reading, almost all sports, and spending time with her two grandsons.

Family Health Guide
To take advantage of the latest medical advances, and to deal with the often-confusing world of health care, you need information that is clear, accurate, easily understandable, and accessible. The Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide brings you the information you need to keep your and your family healthy and to cope with illness when it does strike. 170 faculty members of Harvard Medical School, physicians who care for patients every day, developed this comprehensive guide.

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