Choosing a pediatrician is one of the first important health care decisions parents make. Your child’s pediatrician will help guide their care from infancy through adolescence — from routine checkups and vaccinations to illnesses, injuries and developmental milestones.
If you’re expecting a baby or looking for a pediatric provider, taking time to choose the right fit can help you feel more confident in your child’s care.
Start Your Search Early
Many parents begin looking for a pediatrician during the third trimester of pregnancy, giving them time to explore options and feel confident in their choice before their baby arrives, according to Dr. Anna Neal.
“You’ll need to provide your pediatrician’s name when you check into the hospital for delivery,” Dr. Neal said. “Starting early gives you plenty of time to find the right fit.”
Newborns are typically seen within a few days after leaving the hospital, making it important to have a provider selected ahead of time.
Look for a Pediatrician Who Inspires Comfort and Trust
Finding a pediatrician who makes parents feel comfortable is one of the most important parts of the decision, Dr. Neal said.
“A great pediatrician listens, communicates clearly and helps families feel supported,” Dr. Neal said. “You want a partner who helps your child feel safe.”
Dr. Kyle Torni described the relationship as a long-term partnership.
“A pediatrician should feel like a teammate — someone who helps guide your child and your family through the ups and downs of childhood,” he said.
Consider Location and Convenience
Convenience can play a key role in choosing a pediatrician, especially helping when children need to be seen quickly.
Dr. Neal recommended starting with practical considerations such as location, insurance and provider availability.
“Look for offices convenient to your home or daycare,” she said. “From there, confirm they accept your insurance and which doctors are accepting new patients.”
Parents can then review provider bios, gather recommendations and even schedule a prenatal visit to help make their decision.
It’s also helpful to consider:
- Office hours and same-day appointment availability
- Online scheduling options
- Access to a patient portal, which allows families to message their child’s care team, view test results and manage appointments in one place
Understand How the Practice Handles Sick Visits
Because children can become sick unexpectedly, parents should understand how a pediatric practice handles same-day and after-hours care.
Dr. Neal said families should ask about these processes early.
“Ask how same-day sick visits are handled and what support is available after hours,” she said. “It’s helpful to know what to expect before your child gets sick.”
Ask About Well-Child Visits
Well-child visits are an important part of pediatric care, allowing physicians to monitor growth, development and overall health.
These visits typically include:
- Growth and developmental screenings
- Vaccinations
- Guidance on nutrition, sleep and behavior
- Time for parents to ask questions
Dr. Neal said these regular visits help build strong relationships over time.
“You’ll see your pediatrician frequently during the first few years,” she said. “That’s how trust and familiarity naturally develop.”
Communication Matters
Both physicians emphasized that communication is one of the most important parts of pediatric care.
“Communicating your concerns, needs and beliefs helps us do the very best we can for your child,” Dr. Torni said.
He added that pediatricians rely on open, honest conversations to develop care plans that work best for each family.
Meet the Provider if Possible
Some pediatric practices offer prenatal visits, giving parents an opportunity to meet providers before their baby arrives.
Dr. Torni said these visits can help families feel more prepared.
“Ask anything that helps you understand your pediatrician’s approach and how it aligns with your family’s values,” he said.
Pediatric Care Close to Home
If you’re looking for pediatric care for your child, AnMed Pediatrics offers convenient options for families in the area.
Our pediatric providers offer comprehensive care for children from infancy through adolescence, including:
- Newborn and infant care
- Routine well-child visits
- Immunizations
- Sick visits for common childhood illnesses
- Guidance on growth, development and nutrition
Families can receive care at AnMed Pediatrics locations in Clemson and Piedmont, making it easier to access pediatric care close to home.
To learn more about our pediatric providers or schedule an appointment, visit AnMed.org.
