Interviewing Pediatrician...What to ask?

[GuavaGirl]

We're meeting a pediatrician tomorrow and I'm wondering what are some good questions to ask.

So far I've got...

When is the first baby exam and what do the following months look like as far as check-ups, appointments, etc. ?

What are your views on vaccinations? (we plan to vax, but I'm curious about delayed vaxing. I haven't even looked into it at all. Dh is definitely not interested in deviating from the regular schedule.)

What are your views on circumcision? (we plan to not circumcise)

Also, I know there's a nurse that works there and does exams, so should I ask something about how often we'll see the nurse vs. the actual pediatrician?


I'm really going into this planning on choosing this Doctor, because she came so highly recommended (& there aren't too many options in my town), but I just want to meet her and get a feel for her, just in case.

[Comtessa]

I wish I'd had a list for this purpose a few months ago! It would have saved me a lot of trouble. If I had "do-overs" I would have asked some of these:

• "For common childhood ailments such as ear infections or thrush, do you typically start by offering antibiotics, or do you suggest alternative treatments first? Would you describe yourself as "conservative" or "aggressive" when it comes to prescribing medical treatments?"

• "How long do you advocate that mothers breastfeed?"

• "When do you suggest starting a baby on solid foods?"

• "When do you believe that babies should sleep through the night, and do you have any techniques that you propose for ways of making them do so?" (This is a trick question. The only correct answer is 'there IS no safe or appropriate way of making a baby sleep through the night. Your baby will do so when s/he is ready.')

• "Do you advise parents about lifestyle and parenting choices as well as issues of health and medicine?"

• "What is one piece of advice that you give most often that parents don't follow?"

• "Do you advocate that all children sleep alone in a crib? What is your opinion on cosleeping?"

• "What do you understand to be the role of the pediatrician?"