How to Choose a Pediatrician for Your Baby: A Guide for New and Expecting Parents

When should you choose a pediatrician? 

Many parents start looking for a pediatrician during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. 

Choosing a doctor before your baby is born gives you time to: 

• Research your options 
• Check which doctors accept your insurance 
• Make sure your pediatrician knows where you plan to deliver 

How to find a pediatrician 

If you’re not sure where to begin, start here to help you create a list of pediatricians to consider: 

• Ask your OB-GYN or midwife for recommendations 
• Talk with friends, family or neighbors who have young children 
• Check your health insurance plan for in-network pediatricians 
• Search online for pediatricians in your area, looking at reviews and a convenient location close to home and easy to reach when your child gets sick 
• Look for practices affiliated with trusted health systems such as Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia 

What to look for in a pediatrician

Every family is different, but these factors often matter most when choosing a pediatrician.

1. Experience and credentials

Look for pediatricians who are board-certified and experienced in caring for infants and children. You may also want to know:

• Where they trained
• Their areas of special interest
• Whether they are affiliated with a children’s hospital or health system

2. Office hours and availability

Choose a pediatrician whose office is convenient to your home or childcare. During your baby’s first year, you’ll have several well-child visits plus any sick visits that arise. Kids don’t always get sick during business hours. Knowing how to reach help when your child is sick can bring peace of mind. Ask questions like:

• Are there same-day sick appointments?
• Are evening or weekend hours available?
• Is there a nurse line or on-call doctor after hours?

3. Practice size and structure

Some pediatricians work in large group practices, while others work in smaller offices. Group practices can offer advantages such as more appointment availability; backup doctors if your pediatrician is unavailable; and expanded hours or urgent visits.

4. Communication style

You’ll be asking your child’s doctor many questions over the years. Trust and open communication are key to a strong doctor-parent partnership. Choose someone who listens carefully, explains things clearly, respects your parenting choices, and makes you feel comfortable asking questions.

5. Office environment

If possible, visit the office before deciding. A comfortable setting can make visits easier for both parents and kids. Look for things like a clean, welcoming environment, friendly staff, reasonable wait times, and child-friendly exam rooms or waiting areas.

Questions to ask when meeting a pediatrician 

Consider asking: 

• Do you have experience caring for newborns? 
• How do you handle after-hours calls or urgent concerns? 
• What is your approach to vaccines and preventive care? 
• How quickly can sick children be seen? 

• Do you offer telehealth (video) visits? 

Pay attention not only to the answers, but also to how the pediatrician communicates with you. 

Trust your instincts 

Choosing a pediatrician is a personal decision. After researching options and meeting potential doctors, trust your instincts. You should feel confident that your pediatrician: 

• Understands your concerns 
• Treats your child with care and patience 
• Supports your family’s needs 

The right pediatrician will become a trusted partner in your child’s health, from newborn visits through adolescence. 

Make an informed choice and partnering with a pediatrician you trust 

Becoming a parent or growing your family is a time of huge transition. It can, at times, feel like a rollercoaster ride. But it's all part of the process; the joys and challenges of being a great parent. And when your child is here, having the right pediatrician by your side can make all the difference in the world. 

When you choose a pediatrician at one of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s (CHOP) 30+ Primary Care practices, you become part of one of the country’s top children’s hospital networks. We get to know you and your family and work to build a relationship based on trust and communication. And we do it all with one goal: to give your child the best care possible, keeping them happy and healthy throughout infancy, childhood, into their teens and beyond. We’re here for you: always and in all ways. 

If you’re expecting a baby or looking for a pediatrician for your child, explore CHOP Primary Care locations to find a pediatrician near you.

Frequently asked questions about choosing a pediatrician 

When should I choose a pediatrician during pregnancy? 

Most parents choose a pediatrician during the second or third trimester so they have time to research options before the baby arrives. 

Do I need a pediatrician before my baby is born? 

Yes. Hospitals usually ask for the name of your baby’s pediatrician before or shortly after delivery so your newborn’s care can be coordinated. 

When will my newborn first see the pediatrician? 

Most babies have their first pediatrician visit within a few days after leaving the hospital. 

During this visit, the doctor will:

• Check your baby’s weight and feeding

• Look for signs of jaundice

• Answer questions about sleep, feeding and newborn care

• Review your baby’s health after delivery

Your pediatrician will then schedule regular well-child visits throughout your baby’s first year to monitor growth, development and vaccines.  

How often will my baby see the pediatrician? 

Babies typically have multiple well-child visits in the first year, including visits soon after birth and regular checkups to monitor growth, development and vaccines. Check out a common schedule here. 

What if I change my mind later? 

It’s okay to switch pediatricians if your family’s needs change or you feel another doctor might be a better fit. The most important thing is finding a pediatrician you trust.