Pediatricians for new parents

By Haedyn Scgalski

5 Rights | Managing Editor

For many new mothers and fathers, picking a pediatrician to care for their newborn is something to take some time to consider. There are many ways to find the right pediatrician. Research and talking to people is one way to go.

“I asked my OB/GYN who they recommended and also asked around town,” Mrs. Rachel McCarver said. “I had actual recommendations from people, I asked around town and I kept getting the same names.”

There are also certain things new mom’s and dad’s can do to prepare for their first appointment with the baby’s pediatrician.

“Since this is our very first visit, I am keeping a list of questions that I have because it is important so you don’t freeze up and forget to ask questions,” McCarver said.

Checkups are also imperative for children.

“Children should be seen a minimum shortly after birth, two months, four months, six months, nine months, 12 months, 15 months, 18 months, two years and then yearly until age 21,” Dr. John Kunzer, pediatrician at Wishard Health Services said. “These checkups allow doctors to give the necessary immunizations to prevent life threatening diseases, developing appropriately, monitor the child’s development and growth, provide parents with age appropriate health information to care for their child, discuss how the child’s health may be affecting school performance and check for underlying health disorders that may not be apparent to parents.”

McCarver is ready for her daughter’s first appointment.

“I’m going to ask if what our baby is doing is normal, any advice for sleeping and eating habits,” Mrs. McCarver said. “This is also a chance to get to know our pediatrician.”

It is key to follow the doctor’s suggestions.

Information from family and media can be misleading. Parents should not solely rely on the internet or television.

“Doctor’s suggestions are based on a lot of science and research. Doctors can help parents filter through all of the information that is out there and recommend what is best to keep a child healthy,” Dr. Kunzer said.

Parents should take special consideration when picking a pediatrician and also using information that they get from family and websites.

“Choosing the right pediatrician is important because you have to find the right fit for you and your family,” McCarver said. “It’s someone you have to depend on during some of the toughest time in your child’s life.”

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