Pediatricians in Chesapeake, VA
Welcoming a new member of your family is a joyous occasion. However, in the excitement of planning a nursery, hospital tours, and birthing classes you may not be thinking about one of the most crucial steps-picking a pediatrician. The pediatrician will be your lifeline, especially during those first few months when you are learning all about your new little bundle of joy. It’s important that you find a pediatrician who you like. Someone who listens to your concerns and aligns with your own personal beliefs about your child’s health care. There are quite a few options for pediatricians in Chesapeake, VA. This blog will provide you with advice about the considerations you should make when choosing the right healthcare experience for your little one.
What Insurance Do They Accept?
You should begin your search by checking in with your insurance company. Most will have a list of the care providers that are in-network. Use this list as the jumping off point of your search. However, just because a provider is on the list, does not mean they are currently accepting patients. In addition, the medical field is constantly changing, contracts are rewritten, providers will stop accepting certain types of insurance. When you reach out to the office make sure you inquire about whether or not they are accepting new patients AND that they still currently accept your insurance.
Tricare Member? Did you know they have an easy way to find in-network providers. Click here for their “Find a Doctor” website.
Proximity and Accessibility
Once you have a list of pediatricians in Chesapeake, VA to look into, evaluate the proximity of their office to your home, work, daycare, and/or school. As many of us know, the traffic in Chesapeake can be unpredictable. When you have a sick child, the last thing you want to worry about is how long it will take you to get them in to be seen. Picking a pediatrician who is nearby, if possible, will help ease your mind.
Another consideration is accessibility. When you call each pediatrician you should inquire about office hours, scheduling, availability for sick visits and urgent care services, and whether or not you will have access to a nurse-line for less urgent questions. Opting for a pediatrician who has flexibility and timely appointments will ease the stress of your child’s healthcare journey.
Philosophy of Care and Communication Style
You will find that like parenting, there are many different styles and approaches to pediatric healthcare. Some providers are warm, open, and approachable while others are more straightforward in their care. You will need to find a care provider whose philosophy meshes well with your own parenting style. Engage in discussions about their perspectives on breastfeeding vs formula feeding, introducing solids, vaccinations, antibiotics, and their approach to special health care needs. Choosing a pediatrician whose care resonates with your own parenting values will lead to a partnership that greatly benefits your child’s healthcare journey.
Another important thing to consider is the pediatrician’s receptiveness towards communicating and partnering with parents. Inquire about their policies around answering questions, giving advice, and addressing concerns outside of regular appointments. A pediatrician who listens to your concerns, without brushing you off, will foster a trusting relationship with you and, in-turn, your child.
Supportive Staff and Child-Friendly Environment
The atmosphere of the office will greatly influence your child’s perception of their healthcare journey. When you visit the office, take a look around. Are the decorations child-centered and colorful? Does the space feel welcoming? Are there (clean) play areas available for your child while they wait? Is there a separate space for sick kids to wait away from kids there for regular checkups? Do the staff members seem warm and welcoming? Does your child seem comfortable around the receptionist and nursing staff? All these things will help your child feel safe and comfortable when they visit the doctor.
Pediatricians in Chesapeake, VA
Choosing the right pediatrician for your child is a crucial step to ensuring their health and well-being. You will need to consider factors such as whether they take your insurance, where their office is located, if their philosophies align with yours, and how welcoming the environment is. Before deciding, read reviews and testimonials. Reach out to friends and family. Join local parenting groups and ask for recommendations.
Remember, choosing the right pediatrician is an important step when you have a child. A true partnership will greatly benefit your child’s growth and happiness in the years to come. It is important to take the time to carefully consider your options so you can make the best decision for your child. Make sure you are doing all this important work before greeting your new little bundle of joy. The hospital will want to know the name of your child’s pediatrician before releasing you. The last thing you want is to be making a spur of the moment decision, while still reeling from the birthing process and the beginnings of your time with your little one.
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