"Infancy is an especially vulnerable time of life, as infants' immune systems are still maturing," says David L. Hill, MD, a paediatrician in Wilmington, NC1.
Indeed, it is. And that's the reason why, babies during their initial years of life (at least till 2 years) are susceptible to different kinds of health conditions and diseases like nasty cold, fever, rashes, vomiting and falling and getting injured time and again. We understand that, being new parents, dealing with such situations goes beyond your comprehension and makes you extremely nervous, as there are no rulebooks that you can follow. But we also understand that, for you nothing else is more important than your baby's health and well-being. Therefore, to give your child the healthiest possible start, choosing the right paediatrician should consciously be given a thought. After all it is the paediatrician who has the best knowledge about the cognitive and physical development of your child.
Hence, here are few tips that you can take down to choose the right paediatrician for your child.
Plan in Advance:
Since your baby will need to visit the doctor quite often within the first few weeks of its life after-birth, the best time to start looking for a paediatrician is 3 months before your baby is due. Your friends and family members might flood you with many names, but it is also a good idea to check with your gynae you are under.
Check the Credentials:
Completing 3 years training in paediatrics after graduating from a well-known medical college will always add value to a parents' paediatricians' choice list.
Check the Experience
Experience matters a lot. But, when it comes to your child specialists' experience, while some parents might look out for young female paediatricians, others might look out for grandfatherly types. Moreover, paediatricians with hands-on parenting experience will surely be a "yes" from you, as you will always appreciate that extra sympathy that the doctor showcases.
Scout the Location
Based on the number of times you will be visiting the doctor with your little one, choose a location which is relatively close to your house or workplace.
Know the Routine
Once you have made a list of choice know:
- The convenient meeting hours.
- If the evening hours or weekends are comfortable enough.
- If the appointment needs to be taken in advance
- If the doctor takes calls, when your baby might suddenly need medical attention at odd hours or on holidays.
- If the doctor's chamber has a separate waiting area where you can breastfeed your bay
- If you child has an emergency, will the child specialist be able to deal with it or your child will be referred to an emergency care centre.
- If the doctor responds to text messages
Expectation
The paediatrician will:
- Will conduct all the necessary health check-ups for your child and treat ailments and injuries.
- Will vaccinate your baby
- Will recommend medicines, nutritional food-intake, and physical activities from time-to-time
- Will be well-informed about your little one's development.
- Will also refer to an expert specialist if the doctor thinks there are serious concerns.
Bottom Line
Choosing the right doctor for your baby will make your life lot easier as a new parent. So please keep the above factors in mind and make the best possible choice!
