What families need to know

It's normal for parents to feel overwhelmed when choosing a health care provider for their child. You want your child to have access to the best possible care. Don't wait until your child is sick to make this important decision.

Brainstorm: who are you looking for? Get out a pencil and paper. Make a list of what you want from your child's physician.

Of course you want a physician who is experienced in managing the health care needs of kids.

But also consider your views about parenting. How do you feel about breastfeeding? Circumcision? Daycare? Discipline? Find a physician who supports your beliefs about parenting. By doing so, you will be more likely to trust your doctor's opinion.

Does your child have any special medical needs? If so, be sure to tell the doctor and make sure he or she is comfortable treating your child's condition.

Not all doctors are the same. The health care needs of children are unique. For this reason, it's important to pick a doctor who has been specially trained to treat kids. Both pediatricians and family medicine physicians are qualified to manage the health needs of children.

• specialize in the care of infants and adolescents
• focus exclusively on children's physical, emotional, and social health
• have expertise in illnesses and diseases specific to young, growing bodies

• specialize in caring for the whole family, from newborns to grandma and grandpa
• train in several areas, including pediatrics, internal medicine, orthopedics, and obstetrics and gynecology

Often, a friend or family member may recommend a health care provider for your child. Their advice can be a good starting point, but be sure to choose the physician who makes you and your child feel at ease.

The cost factor. Which doctors are available through your child's health insurance plan? If you have a doctor in mind who is not covered, ask your insurance provider how this doctor can be added to the preferred provider list.

How important is location? The best possible health care is not always right down the street. Convenience may be a consideration, but your child's care should be the determining factor.

Make a "maybe" list. Narrow your options down to a short list of prospective physicians. Schedule an appointment for you and your child to visit the clinic and chat with the doctor. Get a feel of the environment and health care staff. Ask questions, such as:

• Are you board certified? Tell me about the credentials of your staff.
• Will you refer me to a specialist if I want a second opinion?
• Which children's hospital do you refer your patients to for specialty care?
• Do you have more than one office or belong to a network of physicians?
• When are appointments available?
• Whom can I call with questions or concerns?
• What if my child has a health emergency at night or on the weekend?

After the interview, think about what you have learned. Consider this when deciding which doctor to choose:

• Does the doctor talk to your child?
• Do you like and trust the doctor?
• Does the doctor answer your questions?
• Do you and your child feel comfortable in the office?
• Is the health care staff friendly and helpful?

To find out more about University of Iowa Children's Hospital and Pediatric and Family Medicine staff members at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, call UI Health Access at 319-384-8442 or 800-777-8442