Pediatrician Interview Questions for a New Mom
- What is the doctor's child-rearing philosophy? Is the doctor qualified to discuss behavioral issues? How does the doctor view breastfeeding, circumcision, antibiotics and immunizations? Does the doctor have any recommendations regarding books on child rearing?
- Does the office have a pediatric nurse practitioner -- a nurse specifically trained for infants? Is the practice a solo or partner practice? Are the doctors on call on a rotating schedule? Who covers for the child's doctor when the doctor is not available? Does the practice charge for phone calls? What is the regular appointment length? How often will the baby be seen in the first year? Are there evening and weekend hours? If there aren't, whom should I contact for weekend emergencies? With what hospital is the practice affiliated?
- Does the practice accept my insurance? How are bills handled? Does the office deal with the insurance or do I have to submit the bills? Is the copay due at time of visit, or can I elect to be billed at a later date? Is payment expected after receiving emergency care? Is there a central billing location or do I pay in the office?
- Does the doctor return phone calls, or does the nurse call back? Does the office host a website or email address for patients? Are calls for routine or nonemergency situations encouraged? How do I reach the doctor if there is an after-hours illness?
- What are the office hours? Are there any days during the week when there are extended office hours? What evening or weekend hours are available? If there are no evening or weekend hours, is there an alternate general care facility?
- Is there a sick child waiting room, where ill children are separated from children receiving routine checkups? Can I bring my child into the office if he is sick during nonoffice hours? Does the doctor have any subspecialties, such as expertise in learning disabilities, which will help the child if the child develops an illness?
- Was the office clean? Was the waiting room child friendly? Were there toys to keep the children occupied while waiting? Was the staff friendly and helpful? Was parking readily available? Was the doctor willing to accept questions? Was the doctor friendly? How long was your wait? Did you like the doctor? Did you understand the doctor's communication style? Was the doctor current on the latest medical issues?
