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| Home > Services and Specialties > Childbirth Services > St. John's Mercy Hospital |
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| Choosing a Pediatrician |
| As soon as you find out you’re pregnant, it’s time to think about choosing a health care provider for your baby. Your baby’s relationship with the pediatrician begins with a complete examination in the hospital soon after delivery, but yours should begin before that. If you select your pediatrician early in your pregnancy, you’ll have plenty of time to get to know your baby’s doctor, ask questions and feel comfortable with your decision. You’ll also feel confident because you’re prepared if a premature birth or emergency occurs. |
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A "get-acquainted"
meeting is a good way to know whether you and the pediatrician are a good
match, to meet the office staff, and to get a feel for the pediatrician’s
philosophy on caring for children.
For example, what
are his or her feelings about how to handle crying? Will he or she treat
you as an equal member of your child’s health care team?
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An introductory meeting
also will acquaint you with the pediatrician’s office so you may decide
whether it’s a comfortable, soothing environment for you and your child.
Before you leave, ask for brochures about office policies and procedures.
Click
here for a printable checklist of questions to bring with you when you
meet with a potential pediatrician.
When you’re making a decision as important as this, it’s impossible to ask too many questions. For answers to your questions and help in choosing a qualified pediatrician, call St. John's Mercy Physician Referral Service at 314-FOR-DOCS (314-367-3627) or 1-888-700-7171. We’ll provide the names of several pediatricians who meet your needs and can provide personal pediatric care for your child from birth through adolescence. You can also search our online physician directory for the names of pediatricians in your area.
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