Choosing the right pediatrician is such an important decision, and it’s one that every parent wants to get right. From the moment your baby arrives, your pediatrician will play a big role in monitoring their health and development, offering guidance and reassurance through all the milestones and challenges. But with so many options out there, how do you figure out who’s the best fit for your family?
As co-founders of Carriage House Birth, we’ve supported countless families through this process, and we know it can feel overwhelming at times especially right after the birth of your little one. That’s why we’ve put together some practical tips and questions to help you find a pediatrician who aligns with your family’s needs and values.
Start Your Search Early
Begin your search during pregnancy, ideally in the second or early third trimester. This allows you ample time to research, schedule interviews, and make an informed decision before your baby arrives. It’s important to not feel overwhelmed or rushed when making your choice. Many pediatric practices offer "Meet and Greet" sessions, where you can discuss your concerns and determine if the practice aligns with your family’s values and needs.
Top Priorities - What Matters Most
Every family has unique priorities when it comes to pediatric care. For some, proximity to home is key. Others might prioritize services like lactation support, in-home visits, or even a particular philosophy on care. Take a moment to reflect on what’s most important to you. Do you prefer a smaller practice that offers personalized attention or a larger one with extended hours and a broad range of specialists?
Ask the Right Questions
When interviewing pediatricians, ask questions that address both their approach to care and the logistics of their practice. Here are some examples:
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What is your philosophy on vaccinations, antibiotics, and holistic approaches to care?
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How do you handle after-hours concerns or emergencies?
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Do you have experience with newborn-specific concerns like tongue-tie or lactation support?
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What is your policy for scheduling same-day sick visits?
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Do you offer any additional services, like in-home visits or telehealth?
Explore Concierge Pediatric Care
Concierge pediatric practices, like Seren Pediatrics, are becoming an increasingly popular choice for families seeking convenience and personalized attention. Dr. Justin, the founder and medical director of Seren Pediatrics, explains: “Our pediatric concierge practice provides in-home checkups and urgent care visits, making high-quality healthcare accessible and stress-free for busy families. We excel in newborn care, offering services like lactation support and in-home tongue-tie release. We also handle sick visits, x-rays, stitches, and testing for Covid, Flu, and Strep. Our goal is to partner with families to alleviate the stress of navigating pediatric healthcare.” For families in New York, Seren Pediatrics offers an innovative approach to care, combining expertise with the convenience of home-based services. You can learn more about membership, schedule a "Meet and Greet," or enroll your children by visiting their website.
Trust Your Instincts
Beyond credentials and logistics, it’s important to feel comfortable and confident in your pediatrician’s ability to care for your child. Trust your instincts during the "Meet and Greet" and pay attention to how well the pediatrician listens, communicates, and addresses your concerns.
Build a Strong Partnership
The right pediatrician is more than a healthcare provider; they’re a partner in your child’s health journey. By taking the time to find a pediatrician who aligns with your family’s needs and values, you’re setting the stage for a supportive and collaborative relationship.
When you’re ready to explore options, consider practices like Seren Pediatrics that go above and beyond to meet families where they are—both physically and emotionally. The peace of mind that comes from having a trusted partner in your child’s care is invaluable.
A Shared Vision for Supporting Families
At Carriage House Birth, co-founders Domino Kirke-Badgley and Lindsey Bliss have long championed the importance of empowering families with the resources they need for a smooth transition into parenthood. Their expertise in doula care, childbirth education, and postpartum support has created a foundation of trust for countless families. Our collaboration with Seren Pediatrics speaks to this mission by ensuring that families receive high-quality, accessible pediatric care right from the start. Together, we’re working to alleviate the stress of early parenthood by offering holistic, accessible care that supports families physically and emotionally. It’s all about meeting families where they are—both literally and figuratively. Whether it’s through birth support or concierge pediatric care, families are at the heart of everything Carriage House Birth and Seren Pediatrics do.
We hope these tips help you feel more confident as you start this journey. Finding the right pediatrician is a big decision, but with the right tools and support, you’ve got this!
Photo: Naomi Vonk