6 Qualities to Look For in a Pediatrician

When looking for a pediatrician, you should schedule initial visits with multiple doctors to see if they are a good fit for your family. At these visits you should ask them any questions you have about their practice, as well as notice what qualities they have as a person. Read on for 6 qualities to look for that could factor into how they will be as a pediatrician.

Good Listener

Whether it is your’s or your child’s concerns, you want a pediatrician that will always be open to hearing them out. When trying to figure out all that comes with parenthood, you will want a pediatrician you can go to with any questions. A good pediatrician is one of the best resources possible for a parent, which is why you want one that is a good listener and is willing to help. 

Personable

Keep in mind that your child’s pediatrician is someone who you will keep coming back to for many years to come. A pediatrician who is personable will be much more enjoyable to see over the years. Some pediatricians are extremely good with children which will make the appointments often go smoother. 

Knowledgeable

All pediatricians have gone through extensive training to become a doctor, however some are more knowledgeable than others. You want a provider that works to stay current with all the new medical information that is constantly coming out. If at your first visit the office technology seems outdated and the pediatrician does not seem interested in keeping up with medical knowledge, you may want to continue your search. A provider that stays up to date with medical information will have the best tools on hand to treat your child. 

Caring

The last thing you want is a pediatrician who acts like they want to get through the appointment with your child as quickly as possible. In your initial visit with them, look for cues that the doctor actually cares about their patients. This can be by them attempting to get to know you and your child, and making sure they explain everything going on in terms you can understand. A pediatrician should want to do everything possible to keep your child healthy and cared for. You need to feel assured that your child is in good hands.

Accommodating

When you are making initial visits with different offices, you will want to take note of how hard it is to get in to see each doctor. If it takes a long time to get in to see a provider, it is likely that it will always take a while to schedule appointments. You want a pediatrician that you are able to schedule visits with quickly when necessary. At an initial visit you will want to ask about after hours care and sick visits. Finding a pediatric office that gives their patients care options when they are closed or at the last minute could be beneficial in the future.

Have Children

Although pediatricians have gone through all the necessary training to take care of your child’s health, parenthood is also a learning lesson. A fellow parent will have a much better idea of what you are going through and can therefore be more prepared to help you. They can understand your concerns at a level that non-parents often will not be able to and can give you advice based on their own experience.

To find pediatricians in your area who may be a good fit, search ‘developmental pediatrician Farmington CT’ or your city. From here, you can view services each pediatric office has and read through their reviews. For example, if you are looking for a pediatrician that has a lactation consultant on staff, look for this on their website. Once you have found a few pediatricians in your area that provide the services you are looking for you can schedule consultation at each one. At these consultations, keep these qualities in mind to find the best pediatrician for you and your child.