Congratulations on your growing family!
It is important to find the right health care team for your baby. You and your new baby are going to be frequently visiting a health care provider in the next few years. New baby visits typically consist of an initial newborn visit in the first week of life, a 2-week visit, then followed by visits at the age of 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 24 months. That’s a lot of time at the doctor’s office just for routine preventative care that doesn’t account for additional illnesses or concerns. It is important that your family feels comfortable with your doctor. Lakeview is proud to have many knowledgeable and compassionate doctors both in pediatrics and family medicine that provide care to children of all ages at our four locations. You are welcome to schedule a “meet and greet” visit with a potential doctor prior to delivery if you wish, but it is not required. You will want to let your obstetric doctor know who you have chosen to be your baby’s doctor. When you are in the hospital, your baby will be seen by a doctor from the pediatric or family medicine team that you have chosen. If your doctor is not working in the hospital that week, you will meet them in clinic.
Should my newborn or child see a pediatrician or a family medicine doctor?
That is up to you. Both pediatricians and family physicians are trained to see children of all ages and care for their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Pediatricians are specialists in the care of children 0 to 18 years of age. Family medicine doctors care for patients through all stages of life, from newborn to elderly and everything in between. Some pediatricians may have more experience in treating children with complicated medical concerns or special needs. Family physicians have the advantage of getting to know the entire family unit, which can be an added convenience and build familiarity with your doctor. Lakeview Clinic doctors work well together, and pediatric patients can be seen by another pediatrician or family physician if your doctor is not available. Regardless of which doctor you choose to care for your child, we want you to feel comfortable with your provider and have confidence in your family’s healthcare. You are the most important caregiver in your child’s life, and we are here to support you!
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