Guide · US edition · Updated 2026-10-29

Choosing a Pediatrician: Questions To Ask Before Baby Arrives

You'll see your pediatrician often in the first year, about seven times for routine visits alone. Choose one before the birth, because the hospital will ask, and the first visit usually happens a few days after you get home.

Start with the basics

☐ Is the practice in network with your insurance?
☐ How far is it from home? (You'll drive there with a sick baby.)
☐ Do they see newborns at the hospital where you'll deliver?
☐ Are they accepting new patients?

Questions to ask at a prenatal visit or by phone

☐ What are your office hours? Weekend or evening hours?
☐ What happens after hours: a nurse line, an on-call doctor, or urgent care?
☐ How fast can a sick child be seen?
☐ Will we usually see the same doctor?
☐ Do you have separate waiting areas for sick and well children?
☐ How do you handle messages: patient portal, phone, email?
☐ What support do you offer for breastfeeding or formula feeding?
☐ What's your approach to the recommended vaccine schedule?
☐ Do you have lab work on site?

Notice

☐ Was the staff friendly and clear?
☐ Did the doctor answer your questions without rushing?
☐ Is the office clean and organized?

Make a decision

Write down your top two. Give the hospital the name and phone of your choice, and save it in your phone under "Pediatrician."

Then

Put the well-baby visit schedule in your planner, and start a list of questions for the first visit.

General information, not medical advice.

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