How to Choose a Pediatrician Before You Deliver

Here's something many first-time parents don't realize: you're expected to have a pediatrician picked before you leave the hospital. The first newborn visit is usually just 2–5 days after you go home, so the time to choose is before you deliver. This guide covers how to choose a pediatrician without the last-minute stress.

Why choose one before birth?

• The hospital asks for your pediatrician's name at or before discharge and sends them your baby's records and newborn-screening results.
• The first well-baby visit happens within days of going home — you don't want to be searching then.
• Good practices fill up; deciding early gets you the office and provider you want.

How to make a shortlist

• Start with your insurance. Search your plan's in-network directory so visits are covered — out-of-network pediatric care adds up fast.
• Ask for referrals from your OB, friends, and neighbors.
• Check logistics: distance from home, office hours, and whether they have a same-day sick-visit policy.

Questions to ask

• Are you accepting new patients, and do you take my insurance?
• How do you handle after-hours questions and same-day sick visits?
• Which hospital(s) are you affiliated with?
• What's your approach to vaccines, feeding, and common newborn concerns?
• How far in advance do well-baby visits need to be booked?

Tell the hospital your choice

Once you've chosen, share the pediatrician's name with the hospital at or before delivery. They'll forward the birth summary and newborn-screening results directly to that office, so your baby's first visit is set up smoothly. Then book that first appointment for 2–5 days after your expected discharge.

FirstDays puts "choose a pediatrician" on your pre-birth checklist with a reminder timed to your due date — so it's handled before discharge. Start free.