How Do You Go About Approaching a New Pediatrician?

JamieK1882

So my OBGYN gave me a list of pediatricians in the area. After asking some of our neighbors, there is one group in particular I wanted to look into.

How do you go about making that call? Just say "We're expecting a baby in November and were hoping to get more info from your practice?"

I know there have been posts on here about WHAT questions to ask, just wasn't sure how to start the conversation.

misterdonut

Thats exaclty it. Most allow you to schedule a meet and greet, which is what we did. Didnt go with many questions but just wanted to feel the vibe and say hi.

mb314

misterdonut said:

Thats exaclty it. Most allow you to schedule a meet and greet, which is what we did. Didnt go with many questions but just wanted to feel the vibe and say hi.

This exactly - just call and see if they're taking new patients and if you can come in to meet a doctor.  They should be used to it!   And if a practice is weird about it, then take that as a warning sign that it's probably not a great office.  You'll want to visit the practice to get a feel for it and ask any questions you may have.

sweetbabyrahe

Agree with pp, I just called to ask if that particular physician (the one I wanted) in the group was accepting new patients and if we could schedule an appt to meet him. We gave some of our info and made an appt. It was a quick appt, but all my questions were answered.

jess123456

I did this too and I'm meeting with the pediatrician in a couple of weeks as that is how they do it there. I just called to ask if they are accepting new patients and that it would be for my newborn son.

NLJ82

Based on the title of this thread alone, I was prepared to give you tips on hunting and being stealth. Be sure to not spook him...always offer cash when approaching.

Now...I have nothing.

kstirton

I'm just giving the hospital the pediatricians information.

lizgrace03

Our practice actually schedules a formal meet and greet where a number of parents go in and ask questions of the doctor.  May be something to look into.  Seems like those fill up fast though, so I'd call soon!  

MrsDL

JamieK1882 said:

So my OBGYN gave me a list of pediatricians in the area. After asking some of our neighbors, there is one group in particular I wanted to look into.

How do you go about making that call? Just say "We're expecting a baby in November and were hoping to get more info from your practice?"

I know there have been posts on here about WHAT questions to ask, just wasn't sure how to start the conversation.

Yep - they'll either tell you they have meet and greets and tell you when - schedule one - OR they'll tell you they don't do meet and greets and to call back when you deliver and they'll get you in.  If they do this, ask if you can call back before delivery with some questions (if you want) or ask if you can e-mail some questions and if somebody could take the time to answer, you'd appreciate it.

JamieK1882

Thanks all. Called and yep they do a group meet and greet. Next one is Oct. 28th so we're registered

NLJ82

Econosaurus said:

NLJ82 said:

Based on the title of this thread alone, I was prepared to give you tips on hunting and being stealth. Be sure to not spook him...always offer cash when approaching.

Now...I have nothing.

No I wouldn't bring cash, if you really want their attention bring food. It never ceases to amaze me how much easier things go if you show up with coffee and snacks. The stomach is the key. 

LOL, the pediatrician I work for ONLY wants cash. It's disgusting how many people he demands we double and triple book just to get encounters. Maybe don't use the one I work for O_o

dnetherl

I'm a FTM and met with our pediatrician last week.  I wasn't sure what to ask either.  He did all the talking - he filled me in on his approach, when they would visit me in the hospital, told me about his credentials, and how many kids he has.  The clinic also gave me a goodie bag with tons of samples (score!) and a pamphlet that explained the operations of the clinic.  

I wouldn't stress too much about it; let them take the lead.  They want your business, after all.

jess123456

I met with a pediatrician last week and while a lot of the information is online, it was great to get a good feel for the doctor herself. She spent most time talking and I asked some questions such as if they offer breast feeding support etc. It was nice to get a feel for the office and how they work too. Loved her and signed up with her right after our appointment. I know that not everyone does meet with the pediatrician before but for me I am so glad that I did.

mander82

I picked out what pediatrician I want to use, but I haven't reached out to them yet.  I want to ask my OB at my next appt.  if I need to contact them prior to the birth,  or if they are involved in that at all.

From what I understand the pediatrician will see the baby in the hospital before we take him home, so I am pretty sure I will need to reach out to them prior to baby being born.