Choosing a Pediatrician for Your Newborn in Memphis, TN

The first factor to consider when choosing a pediatrician is location. It is important to choose a pediatrician who is conveniently located, as you will be visiting their office frequently during your child’s first few years of life. Additionally, you should consider the availability of the pediatrician. Does their office have flexible hours or offer weekend appointments? Will you be able to easily schedule an appointment in case of an emergency? Another factor to consider is insurance coverage. Make sure that the pediatrician you choose is in your insurance network to avoid unexpected expenses.

Scheduling a meet-and-greet with potential pediatricians is crucial to finding the right fit for your family. During this visit, you can discuss their approach to care and ask any questions you may have. Some important questions to ask may include their experience with newborns, their philosophy on vaccinations, and their recommendations for feeding and sleep. It is also important to observe their bedside manner and communication style to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in their care.

Other considerations when choosing a pediatrician may include their experience and qualifications. Do they have specialized training in areas such as neonatal care or developmental disorders? Additionally, it is important to choose a pediatrician who is compatible with your family’s values and preferences. For example, if you prefer a more holistic approach to care, you may want to choose a pediatrician who is open to alternative therapies. Finally, it is important to consider the availability of resources such as lactation consultants or mental health professionals within the pediatrician’s practice.

Choosing the right pediatrician for your newborn is an important decision that requires careful consideration. By considering factors such as location, availability, and insurance coverage, scheduling a meet-and-greet, and taking into account experience, qualifications, and compatibility with your family’s values and preferences, you can find a pediatrician who will provide excellent care for your child. Remember that this decision is not set in stone, and it is okay to switch pediatricians if you feel that it is not the right fit for your family.

Babies need to see the doctor or nurse 6 times before their first birthday. Your baby is growing and changing rapidly, so regular visits are important.

The first well-baby visit occurs 2 to 3 days after returning from the hospital when the baby is about 3 to 5 days old. After the first visit, your baby needs to see a doctor or nurse at:

– 1 month old
– 2 months old
– 4 months old
– 6 months old
– 9 months old

If you’re concerned about your baby’s health, don’t wait until your next scheduled appointment—call the doctor or nurse right away.

If you don’t already have a pediatrician or family doctor, it’s best to start looking for one early in pregnancy so you can discuss any questions or concerns you have with them before your baby arrives.

1 week
Babies usually seek medical attention within the first week after discharge from the hospital. During the first visit, your child’s doctor will:

– Weigh your baby and measure your baby’s length and head circumference.
– Watch for signs of jaundice.
– Check on how you and your baby are feeding.
– Do a general health check.
– Ask how the family is adjusting to the new baby.
– Complete any non-hospital screening tests.

From 2 months on, your child’s healthcare provider will:

– Ask about your child’s eating and sleeping habits,
– Ask about your child’s developmental milestones, language milestones, and social and emotional issues,
– Conduct a physical examination,
– Check weight, height and head circumference,
– Get all necessary vaccinations. If your child’s doctor has not prescribed the vaccine, they will tell you where to get it.

They will also answer all your questions.

As mentioned previously, newborns will be seen when they are first born at the hospital, and then again at:

– 1 month old
– 2 months old
– 4 months old
– 6 months old
– 9 months old
– 12 months old
– 15 months old
– 18 months old

If you are concerned for your child, due to their health, well-being, or another reason, you can always schedule another appointment with our clinic to speak to a registered physician. We are there when you need us most. Our pediatricians are excited to meet you and your child and to help your child stay healthy! We serve patients from Memphis TN, Germantown TN, Bartlett TN, Cordova TN, Collierville TN, Oakville TN, and Lenow TN.