Can i switch pediatricians

If your pediatrician runs the show at your visits and you don't have time to ask the questions you came with or respond to what she's saying and ask follow-ups, "that a real red flag," says Dr. As your child's advocate, you need to know that your concerns are heard and addressed. Your doctor doesn't follow through. If your pediatrician says they will do something like call you back in two days, for instance , and they don't, it's a sign the office is overwhelmed and not looking out for your best interests.

You are going to follow through on the directions they give you, and, in turn, you should expect the office to make good on the promises made to you. Your doctor is a pushover. The whole reason you go to a doctor is "to have access to science and data that you wouldn't have without going to medical school and through residency," says Dr.

So if you head to your doctor's office dead-set against a vaccine, it's his responsibility to fill you in on why that may not be the best choice for your child. A doctor who just caves to your desires does not have your child's best interest in mind.

Swanson, "he just shouldn't be paternalistic about them. He should be able to come together with a parent and elegantly come up with a plan that makes the most sense for your child. Your doctor rushes through a physical exam. These days you might be able to get really detailed and accurate medical information online, but "you can't have your child looked over head to toe on the Internet.

It's one of the really incredible and beautiful things about having a partnership with a pediatrician. We really do find things on the physical exam that we wouldn't otherwise. So make sure your doctor is spending a good portion of the visit actually examining your kid.

Your doctor is not board certified. Some fun-loving pediatricians will let their young patients "help" with the exam. A spiral-bound notebook and pen will also do for doodling. Snacks: Pack something substantial for yourself, such as a Luna or Lara bar. It will keep your stomach from growling when the doctor finally arrives. Essentials: Carry diapers, hand sanitizer, snacks that don't make a mess, sippy cups with water, stickers, and the phone number for your pharmacy so the office can call in prescriptions.

By Sarah Lorge Butler March 21, Save Pin More. Credit: Kaysh Shinn. You probably have plenty of questions for your baby's pediatrician, but there might be a few you're afraid to ask. Lucky for you, we talked to doctors, nurses, and office managers to find out must-know secrets of the pediatrician's office. Start Slideshow. Credit: Veer. Credit: Lara Robby. Credit: Bryan McCay. Credit: Blaine Moats. Credit: iStock.

Credit: iStockphoto. Anticipating a longer-than usual wait? Use this list to pack your bag: Toys: A doctor's play kit can quell the anxiety of waiting for a checkup. Replay gallery. Pinterest Facebook. Up Next Cancel. Share the Gallery Pinterest Facebook. Everyone has different criteria for picking a pediatrician, so you should collect at least three names from friends and coworkers.

If you're short on preferred doctors, try the American Academy of Pediatrics' referral site at aap. Also look into the hospitals that your candidates are affiliated with; you'll want one that's both convenient and reputable. Look into insurance. Call your insurance company about any doctor that sparks your interest, since provider lists change frequently.

Visit the office. Scout out the location of the pediatrician's office. Schedule a meeting. After whittling down your list, schedule face-to-face meetings with some of the doctors up to three is reasonable. You can expect to be accommodated within a few weeks, although some pediatricians do monthly group meet and greets. Brainstorm questions. Write a list of questions that might help with your decision. For example: What is the doctor's availability? If she works with a group practice, what's the likelihood of seeing her during visits?

If your baby has a sudden high fever at midnight, who would be on call—a nurse or your doctor? Avoid inquiring about anything irrelevant, such as their educational history. They might be able to provide additional recommendations. You can also check your network again. You can also contact The American Board of Pediatrics to find a board certified pediatrician in your area.

Establishing a good relationship with your pediatrician also involves effort on your part, which includes communicating effectively. Also, mention all of your concerns when setting up the appointment.

If you have three concerns, but only mention one when scheduling the appointment, your doctor might be ill-prepared. Your pediatrician might appreciate the feedback. When giving feedback, though, do so calmly and respectfully, to avoid putting your doctor on the defensive.

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