Pediatrician Interview

I put this off for the longest time because I dreaded it so badly. Not only that, but I had no idea where to start looking for a doctor. I loved the care I received from the Birth Center and my midwife there, so at my 6-week post-partum visit, I asked for any recommendations for a doctor and they had one recommendation for a family doctor. 

I held my breath hoping that one shot is all it would take. I was so, so, so blessed that one visit was all it took to find the family doctor we LOVE. I loved her so much that I threw out half of my interview questions because I knew what the answers would be. 

 It was important to me however, that I ask important questions. I wanted to be sure that she identified with my views and the way I plan to raise Cobi. I wanted her support and input as a doctor, I knew I did not want a doctor who was going to question my parenting choices or put me down for doing or not doing something a certain way. 

 I really hit the jackpot with our doctor and I am so thrilled. It is actually exciting for me to take my baby to the doctor because I love the appointments! Now, how many mothers can say that?! 

 One thing I suggest is to be sure you know where you stand on a lot of medical and parenting issues. I wouldn't have known the questions to ask, or the answers I desired; if I didn't know what I wanted first. Once I established that I put together a list of questions. 

Some are basic questions that every practice should be asked; such as procedure for a sick child, same-day appointments, hospital affiliation and the like. 

::Our Interview::

::The Basics:: 

Why did you become a pediatrician? What is your favorite part of being in this practice?

How much time is allotted for each appointment?

Who is on-call when you’re not available?

What is your hospital association?

Are there separate sick/wellness checkup waiting rooms?

Procedure if my child is sick? Can I call anytime? If it’s outside of business hours, how long until I hear back from you? Are there same-day sick appointments?

Are there fees for consult-calls during the day or after hours?

Do you return all calls, or does your office?

Is emailing an option?

What is the schedule for well-baby checkups –why?

::Personal Preferences::

What is the percentage of mothers in your practice who exclusively breastfeed successfully?

What are your views on:

            Circumcision

            Vaccinations

            Breastfeeding long-term

            Night nursing

            Formula feeding

            Alternative medicine (such as homeopathy, naturopathy or chiropractic)

            Sleep-Training

            Sleeping arrangements for baby – such as cosleeping

            Feeding, solids – when to start, what foods?

            Antibiotics or medication for sick children

How do you respond when parents express different views than what you may suggest/recommend?

Do you identify with one parenting method/style more than another?

What are some of your favorite books to recommend regarding child care/babies?

Do you love your doctor? What questions would you add to this list?