HEALTHY FAMILY
“When choosing
a pediatrician, it’s
important to trust
your instinct.”
Why did you decide to be a pediatrician?
What hours do you work?
Am I able to see you the same day for a
sick visit?
What if I need to see a specialist? How is
that handled?
—DR. RUBY DEY
What hospitals are you affi liated with?
of experienced pediatricians and specialists.”
You might not be concerned about the
length of time they have been practicing,
but you can make sure they are board-certi-
fi ed as a pediatrician by The American Board
of Pediatrics.

What if I disagree with your diagnosis?
How would you respond?
What is your philosophy about vaccines,
breastfeeding, antibiotics, counseling,
discipline and medications?
What are the practice’s policies towards
vaccination? What is the availability of
Interview Questions
sick visit appointments? How are the
Make sure to interview at least three
after-hours calls handled? Answering
diff erent doctors to get a broad range
service, nurse call line?
of options. While you are there, you
should pay attention to the waiting What are the cancellation and
room, offi ce and patients. Is it clean? no-show policies?
meetings or phone calls with expecting
parents. While these aren’t meant to be
interrogations or medical consultations,
a good doctor will be willing and happy to
answer your questions during this initial
introduction,” notes Doulas of Northern
Virginia’s guide.

Above all, don’t compromise on care,
and remember that you can always
switch providers.

“A good pediatric practice will function as
a medical home, providing care that is com-
prehensive, patient-centered, coordinated,
easy to access and committed to quality and
safety,” says Dr. Keane. 1
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counsel-
ing Psychology degree. She is married and is
the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writ-
ing has been published in The New York Times,
National Geographic, The Washington Post,
Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen
Magazine and many other publications. She is a
Are there a lot of people waiting? Here are “Some pediatricians off er group meet- professional member of ASJA. You can fi nd her
and-greets while others set up individual on Twitter @CherylMaguire05
some questions you could ask:
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