As an expectant mom, the prenatal period is a crucial time to plan for your child's health and well-being. One valuable step is to schedule a prenatal consult with potential pediatricians, allowing you to ask essential questions that will shape your child's healthcare journey. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises expectant parents to schedule a prenatal pediatrician visit during the third trimester, particularly at least a month out from your due date, providing ample time for thoughtful consideration and ensuring you make an informed decision. To guide you through this process, we've curated a list of 10 key questions to ask your future pediatrician during your prenatal pediatrician visit.
Questions to Ask Your Future Pediatrician
From administrative policies, billing, and insurance to practice values and care beyond medical services, prenatal pediatrician visits can be a great way for expectant parents to interview pediatricians. These 10 essential questions will empower you to walk into your visit confident and well-prepared, transforming what could be a routine appointment into a purposeful interview that shapes the healthcare journey for your growing family.
Question #1: How long have you been in practice? Where did you attend medical school? Are you a diplomat of the American Academy of Pediatrics? Where have you practiced? Any special interests or subspecialty experience?
During your prenatal consult, delve into your pediatrician's background, education, and professional affiliations. Understanding their expertise and commitment to pediatric care builds confidence in your choice. Not only is their education important but take it a step further and ensure your medical values align with those of the doctors’.
Question #2: Is this a solo or group practice? How often will we see the other doctors in the practice? Can we ask to specifically see our doctor?
Learn about the practice structure during your prenatal pediatrician visit. Knowing whether it's a solo or group practice and the frequency of interactions with other doctors ensures you anticipate the level of personalized care your child will receive.
Question #3: Do you offer same-day sick appointments?
Emergencies can arise unexpectedly. Inquiring about same-day sick appointments during your prenatal visit ensures that your pediatrician can provide timely care when your child is unwell.
Question #4: What if my baby gets sick when the office is closed? How are off-hour emergencies handled?
Discussing how off-hour emergencies are handled is crucial for peace of mind. Understanding the resources available during emergencies is an essential part of your prenatal consult.
Question #5: What hospitals do you work with? If my child must be hospitalized, where would he be admitted?
In the event of hospitalization, knowing which hospitals your pediatrician is affiliated with provides valuable insight. This information is particularly crucial during your prenatal consult to plan for potential emergencies.
Question #6: What tests are handled in the office, and what is done elsewhere? Where?
Understanding the scope of services provided during your prenatal visit helps you prepare for potential diagnostic procedures. Knowing where certain tests are conducted contributes to your overall healthcare planning.
Question #7: Will you discuss issues such as parenting strategies and my child’s emotional and social development?
Beyond medical care, your prenatal pediatrician visit is an opportune time to discuss parenting strategies and your child's emotional and social development. Inquiring about these aspects ensures a comprehensive approach to care.
Question #8: Do you accept my insurance?
Navigating the financial aspects of healthcare is essential. Inquiring about insurance acceptance during your prenatal visit ensures that you're well-prepared for the administrative aspects of pediatric care. This is also a chance for you to cover what may or may not be covered by your insurance (ie. Sports Physicals).
Question #9: What are your policies for insurance claims, lab policies, payments, and billing?
Clarity on administrative matters is essential. Discussing policies on insurance claims, lab procedures, payments, and billing during your prenatal pediatrician visit helps you navigate these aspects seamlessly.
Question #10: If I move forward with you, when will my baby’s first pediatrician visit be? And what will that entail?
Questioning when and what the first pediatrician visit will entail showcases your proactive approach to your baby's healthcare. By seeking clarity on the timing and details of the initial visit, you are not only preparing logistically but also gaining a comprehensive understanding of the pediatrician's approach to early care. This question helps establish a transparent and communicative relationship with your pediatrician, ensuring you're well-informed and confident as you embark on your parenting journey.
Treating the Prenatal Pediatrician Visit like an Interview
Embarking on the journey of parenthood comes with a multitude of decisions, and selecting the right pediatrician is undoubtedly a pivotal one. You will be putting your most valuable asset in the hands of this new doctor. Rather than viewing your prenatal pediatrician visit as a routine appointment, consider approaching it as an interview. This unique perspective allows you to not only gather information but also to gauge compatibility and establish a partnership with your child's future healthcare provider.
- Craft thoughtful questions to understand the pediatrician's qualifications and assess alignment with your parenting values.
- Express expectations, preferences, and concerns to establish a proactive and collaborative relationship.
- Delve into the dynamics of the pediatrician's practice, including whether it's a solo or group practice.
- Inquire about accessibility, emergency protocols, and practice policies for a comprehensive understanding of your child's care.
- Address administrative matters like insurance claims, lab policies, payments, and billing during the visit.
Post-visit, reflect on the encounter as you would after an interview. Consider the pediatrician's responses, demeanor, and how well they align with your expectations. This reflection aids in making an informed decision that goes beyond medical expertise to include interpersonal compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s highly advisable to meet with your potential pediatrician before your baby is born during a prenatal pediatrician visit. This is a way for expectant parents to interview potential pediatricians and decide which aligns with their parenting style and values. If you don’t have a pediatrician picked out prior to delivering, oftentimes the hospital staff will assign you to a pediatrician. It’s important to take control of your child’s healthcare and make this decision on your own.
During a typical prenatal visit, you will be able to talk privately to the pediatrician (sometimes multiple depending on the size of the practice and their availability), tour the office and speak with one of our accounts specialists if you need assistance with insurance.
Some common topics covered during a prenatal pediatrician visit include, but are not limited to:
- What to expect in the hospital from the OB, the nurses/nursery, and us as the pediatricians
- Breastfeeding and how to do it successfully
- Formula Feeding, if parents are doing that
- Car Seats
- Circumcision
- Vaccinations
- Preventive Care
- What you need to know in the first two weeks of life to get you started in a positive way
While a pediatrician does not have a direct role during your pregnancy, their crucial involvement begins once your baby is born. Throughout your pregnancy, it’s the obstetrician who provides care for you and ensures a healthy pregnancy journey. However, immediately after childbirth, the pediatrician steps in to oversee the well-being and health of your newborn. In essence, the transition from obstetrician to pediatrician marks the pivotal moment when the comprehensive care of your baby commences.
Finding a Pediatrician Near You
Your prenatal pediatrician visit is a unique opportunity to gather essential information for your child's future care. By asking these questions, you empower yourself to make informed decisions that align with your values and ensure the health and well-being of your child.
Attention expectant moms in the Virginia Beach area! If you're on the lookout for a trusted pediatrician to accompany you on your parenting journey, look no further than Pediatric Affiliates of Hampton Roads. Our team of experienced pediatricians is passionately committed to delivering top-notch care and unwavering support to children of all ages. With our personalized approach and dedication to patient well-being, you can rest assured that your child is in excellent hands.
Why wait? Schedule your prenatal visit with Pediatric Affiliates of Hampton Roads today and set the foundation for a nurturing healthcare relationship that will support your child's growth and development. Give your child the care they deserve – book an appointment now to ensure they thrive from the very beginning.