Your pediatrician will take care of your child's health care from birth until 18. That’s why it’s important to choose a pediatrician who is right for you and your child. Look for a combination of outstanding medical expertise, good communication skills, friendly support staff and convenience. If your child has particular needs or you have a specific healthcare philosophy, look for a pediatrician who can meet these requirements, too.

Pediatric training, certification and licensing

Pediatricians are physicians who have completed college, medical school and an additional three-year pediatric residency training. They then take a comprehensive exam to be become certified by the American Board of Pediatrics.

Many pediatricians also complete a subspecialty fellowship in neurology, pediatric critical care and other pediatric subspecialties.

The State of California also requires all doctors to be licensed to practice and to complete 25 hours of accredited continuing education each year.
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When and how to find a pediatrician

It's best to start looking for a pediatrician when you are about six months pregnant. That will give you sufficient time to follow up on referrals and interview prospective pediatricians before your baby is born.

The most common, and often the best way, to find a pediatrician is to ask friends, family, neighbors and acquaintances for recommendations.

If you have switched insurance plans, decided to find a new pediatrician, or moved to a new neighborhood and don't know who to ask, you can access our Find a Doctor tool that will provide names of pediatricians located close to your home or work.

Before you make a final decision, you may want to interview more than one pediatrician and compare notes.
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