Last month I got an email from my pediatrician explaining that they were ending their “relationship” with our insurance carrier.  I am not afraid to admit that I was terrified.  Six years ago, when I was pregnant with my first child I went through the tedious process of interviewing pediatricians.  I think I went through about six before deciding on our current doctor.  So the idea of doing all that again was slightly daunting. 

I know exactly what I am looking for in a doctor, and I highly recommend that you take the time to figure that out for your family too. It makes the process that much easier.  On the other side of that argument, I have come to know what I do not want in a doctor too. 

One of the biggest, is a doctor that does not respect my time.  I go out of my way to make sure that I am consistently on time for my appointments.  I understand that things happen in the medical field, kids get unexpectedly sick and therefore it’s hard to keep to schedule.  However, if I’m waiting for more than 15 minutes in the waiting room, or even that long in the exam room I am an unhappy camper.  Generally due to having unhappy impatient children.  However, just some good old fashioned communication could nip my annoyance in the butt.  If when I signed in, I was notified of the delay, the problem is solved.  It’s the complete disregard of my time that gets me. 

Speaking of my time, it’s just as valuable as my doctor’s.  And when I am in the exam room asking questions I expect their full attention.  Any doctor who cannot give this to me is out.  It goes without saying, but I also will not tolerate a doctor that doesn’t talk to my kids like they are people.  Doctor patient relationships should be based on trust, and that trust can only be built if you treat kids like they matter. 

Finding a doctor should be as easy as asking a friend who they like, but always keep in mind what works for your friend may not work for your family.  So be patient, and mindful when searching for a new doctor.  In the long run you’ll sleep better knowing you chose someone who cares about your kids as much as you do. 

-Stephanie Wright