Pediatrician Recommendations

Things have been so hectic since its the holidays. I was wondering if anyone has started looking at pediatricians yet.
If so what questions do I ask. And If I decide to go with them, Do I tell them that?

Also for those who are moms, Can you recommend your pediatrician's name and what town.

I live in the Holbrook/Holtsville/Sayville area. I would really appreciate it. Thanks!

Re: Pediatrician Recommendations

I live in Sayville.. but I travel to West Islip to see Dr. George on Higbie Lane. We started with Grello Pediatrics when Robbie was a baby.. but when Dr. George left Grello to open his own practice we followed him.

I look to see the 'cleanliness' of the office first off. Dirty, unkempt doctor offices give me the willies. Chairs shouldn't look like they have been vomited on 12 times, carpets should be okay for me to let my kid toddle on, tile should not be sticky, walls should look like they've gotten a fresh coat of paint in the last decade, pictures should not have a thick coat of dust on them. I also prefer offices with separate well and sick rooms but it isn't a deal breaker for me since you can't force sick kids not to wander into well rooms.

I also like to see newer technology. I would ask the doctor if they have vision and hearing screening equipment.

It's important to know what hospitals the doctors have permissions at. It should be somewhere nearby that you are willing to go if your child is sick. Also.. if you plan to have your ped check out your child after you give birth it is important to make sure they have permissions at the hospital where you plan to have your child.

Office hours are important. I do not want to be with an office that is only open 9-5 M-F. I need good availability weekends and evenings. I don't require 24/7 care.. but it's nice to know they have alternate office hours.

When talking to the doctor it is important to feel like your styles 'click'. Ask if he offers or can get thimerosal free vaccines. If they roll their eyes and cluck at you.. but that's something that is important to you than you might not want to work with them. Ask them how they feel about prescribing medicines. I do not like medicating my kids AT ALL.. but my gf feels much more comfortable with a doctor who is willing to try different treatments. Ask about coverage.. if your doctor is on vacation.. who would step in? How many doctors are in the practice. I don't like huge practices because I personally feel lost - but small practices make me nervous because if there's only 2 doctors and I don't like one..

Ask to be introduced to one of the nurses and to meet the front office staff. I look for personnel that seems friendly and courteous.

When you are waiting for your chance to meet with the doctor, take note of how many people are there and how long the waits are.

Look them up online. See their ratings - are there any common complaints? If so be ready to discuss them during the interview.

I don't know.. go with your gut. Chances are you will know fairly quickly if the doc is right for you and your child. If you pick one and aren't happy you can always change!

Good luck!