Choosing Your Pediatrician
Pediatricians, their nurses, and office staff—including those of us here at South Lake Pediatrics—are devoted to promoting and maintaining the health of all children. At South Lake Pediatrics, we’ve developed lifelong, nurturing relationships with many of our families. We hope to do the same with you.
Why you need a pediatrician
Children’s health needs differ from adults, which is why it is so important to find a provider who is trained in and experienced with the management and prevention of health problems in infants, children and adolescents. It is important to establish care with a pediatrician as soon as a child enters your family by scheduling a well visit (routine check-up) for your child so your doctor can learn about your child’s health history, family history and complete a physical exam.
When to start looking for a pediatrician
Ideally, a family should start looking for a pediatrician two to three months before the arrival of a child. At South Lake Pediatrics, we invite parents-to-be to make a free “meet you” appointment at any of our 5 convenient locations. You can meet with one of our Pediatricians or Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, and start a relationship with them—a relationship that will grow as your child grows.
Make sure your family’s needs are met
Find out your potential pediatrician’s office hours, the type of insurance accepted, and whether or not the practice does lab tests in the office. Also look for what specialty services the office provides, such as lactation, asthma, and mental health services. Think about what is important to you, your family, and your child. Is a convenient location important? How do they handle “after hours” issues, etc.?
Ask how urgent care needs are managed
One of the most important things to remember when selecting a pediatrician is that many of your child’s health issues will be urgent. Make sure that your future pediatrician is able to offer same-day appointments to accommodate the acute nature of many pediatric health concerns. Clinics with extended hours will also help keep you away from emergency rooms and urgent care centers.
Schedule a face-to-face OR virtual meeting
Plan to meet with your potential pediatrician in person or virtually (you can bring your child if you already have one). Many pediatricians—including South Lake Pediatrics—offer a free interview for families, although some may charge for this preliminary visit.
Ask questions and trust your feelings
Put together a list of questions to ask the provider regarding credentials, availability, staffing and in-office services. Explore the doctor’s attitude about topics that are important to you, such as alternative health methods, cultural sensitivities or moral beliefs related to your child’s healthcare. After the interview, ask yourself how well the provider listened to you. Did the doctor treat you as a partner in the care of your child? Did you feel a sense of trust in the doctor?
Make your decision—and schedule your first appointment
Once you have selected a pediatrician for your child, you will be able to share this information with the hospital where your child is born so that the hospital can notify the pediatrician of your new baby’s arrival. If you already have a child, it will be a good time to schedule a check-up with your new doctor.
Pediatricians, their nurses, and office staff—including those of us here at South Lake Pediatrics—are devoted to promoting and maintaining the health of all children. At South Lake Pediatrics, we’ve developed lifelong, nurturing relationships with many of our families. We hope to do the same with you.
Call 952-401-8300 to schedule a free virtual meet you visit.
Join the South Lake Pediatrics Family
With a legacy grounded in quality and kindness, South Lake Pediatrics welcomes you to a healthcare experience tailored to your family’s unique needs. Enjoy our professional care, affordable options, insightful education, and easy access – all wrapped in a warm and personalized approach.
