As a mother, having a good pediatrician for my children is a priority. However, it can be difficult to locate the right one with the number of options available. Over the years, I have come across several different pediatricians as I have moved to different places and tried new offices. Some I have liked better than others. From my experience, I have come to understand that there are certain signs that help me understand whether or not the doctor will be a good fit for my children and me.
Good Bedside Manner
First, it is extremely important to me that a pediatrician has a good bedside manner. Although this is important for all doctors, I feel it is critical with children. Your children need to feel comfortable when they visit the doctor. If they do not feel calm when they are getting examined, then the physician may have trouble assessing their problem. Also, without good bedside manner, you might not fully understand what you should be doing to best help your child.
Friendly Staff
I have always liked visiting pediatricians that have a friendly staff. I appreciate a good receptionist who is courteous and helpful. In addition, I am grateful for patient nurses who take time with my children – especially the younger ones who need more nurturing. These individuals create a great atmosphere that you will feel comfortable visiting often – whether it be for regular checkups or when your children get sick.
Quick To Respond
Nurses and doctors at the doctor’s office should be quick to respond to any questions and concerns that you might have. You should be able to contact them over the phone whenever you have questions. They can answer your questions and let you know if you should come in and see the doctor for further evaluation. If your calls and questions are not quickly answered, you will feel stressed as a parent. No parent needs this added anxiety – especially with a sick child. Instead, you deserve to have the time and attention of a pediatrician who cares.
Thorough
I feel it is important to visit a physician who is thorough. Many medical problems can be prevented if they are caught in time. However, it takes a thorough evaluation of a doctor to catch them in time. If your pediatrician is in a hurry to get you out of the office, he or she may not catch something that needs your attention. Therefore, make sure that he or she is ok with giving you a few extra minutes.
Educated
Finally, every doctor should have a good education. Before you visit them, ask where they went to school. Then ask about any special schooling that he or she completed in order to specialize in pediatric medicine. Furthermore, make sure that they are making efforts to stay current on modern medicine. After all, it changes daily. New technologies always arise and it is important that they are taking advantage of it to improve the health of your children.
Remember, your children’s health is important. If you are like me, you will look for a pediatrician with these characteristics that will best serve your children. Good luck.