Choosing a child’s doctor is one of the most important aspects of maintaining the child’s overall health. The pediatrician cares for your child’s acute and chronic health needs, provides vaccines, tracks growth and development, and partners with you in raising an emotionally and physically healthy youngster from birth to age 18.
Let’s talk about five things to consider when you choose your child’s doctor and where you can go in Purchase, NY, for the best pediatric care.
#1 Get a Referral.
There are many ways to get a referral. One is to ask your OB/GYN doctor or PCP during the last trimester of your pregnancy. This doctor likely knows you well and what pediatrician may fit best with your health preferences and personality. Additionally, seek a referral from trusted friends or family members.
#2 Check the Doctor’s Credentials and Affiliations Online.
You should consider a highly qualified board-certified and fellowship-trained pediatrician. Children’s doctors have years of extra training beyond medical school and residency. Use the Find a pediatrician tool provided online by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to look for pediatricians who are qualified and experienced members of the AAP.
When you receive some names, do additional homework by looking at the prospective doctors’ online biographies. Most pediatricians have practice websites that list their qualifications, services offered, contact information, etc.
#3 Interview the Children’s Doctor in Person.
Schedule an appointment and interview with the doctor in person. Ask yourself if:
- The support staff is warm and welcoming
- The facility is clean, bright and child-friendly
- The doctor answers all your questions in a friendly, complete manner and seems genuinely interested in your child
- The doctor has training and experience in any special needs your child may have (asthma and learning disabilities, as examples)
If you come away from this appointment feeling uncomfortable or unsure, trust your feelings, and move on to another provider in your area.
#4 Is the Office Located Near Your Home, Workplace, or Your Child’s School or Daycare?
Your child is going to visit the office when sick and for routine check-ups and vaccines from birth to the college years. So, make sure your choice works for your family’s busy schedule.
#5 Ask About Office Hours, Insurances Accepted, and Off-hours Contact.
Most children’s doctors in Purchase, NY, and across the United States have regular Monday through Friday office hours that accommodate both well-child and sick visits. Some feature limited walk-in hours and some Saturdays or evenings. See if the office schedule works for you.
Additionally, inquire about how to contact the doctor during off-hours. Does he or she respond quickly to phone calls, texts, emails, or a patient portal? Does a physician’s assistant or nurse provide off-hours counseling on illness, injury, or medications?
Finally, know your out-of-pocket costs, such as – Does the provider accept your medical insurance? What are your copays?
Is There a Great Pediatrician Near Me?
At BridgeSpan Medicine in Purchase, NY, we provide the health care you and your child deserve. We have five board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatricians and amazing support staff. We would be privileged to deliver the full range of medical services needed for a wonderful journey to adulthood.
To schedule a personal consultation with one of our doctors, call us today at (914) 698-5544, or request an appointment online.
We look forward to telling you all about our practice.
