Pediatricians are doctors whose specialty lies in treating children from birth until age until age 21. These doctors must be approved by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) to treat babies, children and young adults.
Pediatricians must have a college degree, proceed to four years in medical college and have a minimum of three years residency in pediatrics before they get the ABP certification. To keep their certification, pediatricians must continue to learn about pediatrics, deliver excellent services to patients and have a valid medical license.
The following are helpful tips to note when choosing a pediatric doctor’s office.
You can ask close friends, co-workers and family members for recommendations when shortlisting potential pediatrician offices. Ask to know why they chose the pediatrician and their experience during the period spent with the doctor.
You should be checking their educational qualifications, specific area of specialization and if they have ABP certifications. There are helpful websites to see if there have been disciplinary action or accusations filed against the pediatric doctor.
Considering the proximity of the doctor’s office to your workplace, home and child’s daycare is essential. This is especially vital if you have to make frequent visits. Ample parking space will make your dental visits easier.
The office you choose must be available for instant and emergency access, especially on weekends and nights. Knowing that your doctor is available at your disposal can make a serious issue more reassuring.
Scheduling an appointment should be as easy as a phone call. The office should handle calls efficiently, promptly and politely. Almost everyone has had to wait at the doctor’s office before and having a sick child can make this more miserable.
Consider the average patient waiting period for appointments or walk-in services.
Children react to their environment. A bright, warm and exciting surrounding would keep them comfortable. Books and toys are a big plus to keep them engaged while they wait in a pediatric doctor’s office.
The level of hygiene and cleanliness in the office should be excellent. A quick look at the diaper changing area and toilets should give you an overview of that. With the increasing risk of infectious diseases, you should expect the office to have a different waiting area for sick and healthy children.
All your attempts at making a good choice would be futile if your kid does not connect with their doctor. It is reasonable for your child to have reservations about the stranger. That said, the doctor’s attitude and communication skills should help improve or break trust. The doctor should be agreeable and friendly.
Even if the pediatrician manages to gain the child’s trust, you could have reservations. You should be able to communicate your concerns with the doctor. Trust is essential when it comes to choosing a doctor for your child.
Check all doctors for the above criteria. The skills and expertise of the pediatrician are critical to you and to your child’s health.
