When do I need a pediatrician by?

Question

First time mom here and baby is due Sept. 25th. I'm a bit confused as to when I need to find a pediatrician by? I thought the baby wouldn't need to see a ped until they are two weeks old? I was planning on contacting my insurance tomorrow but was hoping one of you ladies could shed some light on the topic.

Answer

My doctor wanted my pediatrician before I gave birth... Because once the baby is born, the medical info would be sent to them. So, when I do the first appointment, they will already know about my babies medical record. Also, if you pick one now, they may do a "new mommy" appt., which was great because I could meet the pediatrician beforehand and get a feel for them before my baby gets here

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Our pediatrician came to the hospital the day after our baby was born, and then usually you see them 2 days later.

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My pediatrician comes to the hospital after delivery so I put her on my pre admission paperwork

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My gyno/pregnancy dr does the first few visits for me and baby. After that they will continue to see me but baby will see pediatric dr.

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We were told by my hospital that we don't get to pick one until after our baby girl is born... But the great thing about my health insurance company is that you can look up profiles of their doctors, OBGYN, etc beforehand. I already have one in mind.

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Both of my first two were seen at a ped office within 5 days of birth as well.

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My hospital said just to let the ob know at time of delivery socthey can get appointments set up

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My doctor actually asked me who I wanted to use at my last appt (37 weeks). I don't know all the peds Drs there, so I asked him to pick.

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Most want to see the baby 5days after birth just to make sure everything is going well. Your hospital will have a pediatrician on staff and you can always use them until you find a pediatrician. We actually ended up switching to the hospital pediatrician because we liked her so much.

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My hospital prefers babies be seen by a pediatrician 24 hours after discharge to check their bilirubin levels. You'll probably need one sooner than two weeks.