What to Ask When Picking Your Pediatrician

Practice & Office Details

• What are your office hours? Are you open on evenings or weekends?

• How do you handle after-hours questions or emergencies?

• How long is the typical wait time for appointments?

• Do you offer virtual visits or telehealth?

• Is this a solo practice or a group practice? Will I always see the same provider?

Hospital & Birth Coverage

• Do you visit newborns in the hospital where I plan to give birth?

• If not, when should we schedule the first visit after delivery?

• Are you affiliated with any specific hospitals?

Philosophy & Approach

• What’s your philosophy on vaccinations?

• How do you approach holistic or alternative remedies (if important to you)?

• What’s your stance on breastfeeding vs. formula feeding?

• How do you support parents with sleep training, co-sleeping, etc.?

Care & Special Needs

• How do you support children with special needs or developmental delays?

• Are you comfortable caring for children with chronic health conditions?

• Do you have experience with premature babies or NICU graduates?

Communication & Support

• How can I reach you with questions—email, phone, portal?

• How quickly do you respond to messages?

• Do you support first-time parents with education and resources?

Billing & Insurance

• Do you accept my insurance plan?

• What costs should I expect for visits, labs, or vaccines?

• Is there a payment plan or sliding scale available?

Professional Background

• How long have you been practicing pediatrics?

• Are you board-certified?

• What led you to become a pediatrician?

Comfort & Compatibility

• How do you include parents in decision-making?

• Are you comfortable with second opinions or parental instincts?

• What’s your general personality and bedside manner like?