Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and sometimes anxiety. Choosing a certified obstetrician can make a significant difference in your pregnancy experience. They are not only the person who will guide you through the prenatal care and delivery process but also the person you will rely on for advice and support during one of the most critical times of your life. In this article, we will discuss how to choose an obstetrician for your pregnancy.
Qualifications and Experience
The first thing to consider is the doctor’s qualifications and experience. You want to ensure that they are an obstetrician certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, which ensures that they have completed the necessary training and passed the required exams to practice their profession.
You also want to consider their experience. It is especially important to choose an obstetrician who has experience with high-risk pregnancies or complicated deliveries if you have specific medical conditions that require additional attention.
Location and Availability
The location and availability of your certified obstetrician are also essential factors to consider. You want to choose a doctor whose office is located near your home or workplace. This will make it easier for you to attend regular prenatal appointments without disrupting your daily routine.
You should also consider their availability, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy. You want to ensure that your obstetrician is available to you whenever you need them, whether it’s for routine check-ups or emergencies. Ask the doctor about their after-hours availability and if they have a backup plan in case they are not available.
Communication Style
Your obstetrician’s communication style is another crucial factor to consider. You want to choose a doctor who is easy to talk to and who will listen to your concerns. They should be able to explain medical procedures and conditions in a way that you can understand.
Additionally, you want to choose an obstetrician who will respect your choices and preferences. If you have a specific birth plan or certain concerns, your doctor should be willing to work with you to accommodate your wishes as much as possible.
Hospital Affiliation
Your obstetrician’s hospital affiliation is also an important factor to consider. You want to choose a doctor who is affiliated with a reputable hospital with a good track record for delivering healthy babies. Check its ratings and reviews to ensure that it meets your expectations.
Additionally, you want to ensure that the hospital is conveniently located and offers the amenities you need, such as private birthing rooms or a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in case of complications.
Insurance Coverage
Finally, you want to consider your insurance coverage when choosing an obstetrician. You want to ensure your certified obstetrician is in your insurance network so you don’t end up with unexpected bills. Additionally, you want to check if the doctor’s office accepts your insurance plan and what your out-of-pocket costs will be.
Conclusion
Choosing the right obstetrician is an essential part of having a healthy pregnancy and a positive birth experience. When selecting an obstetrician, consider their qualifications and experience, location, availability, communication style, hospital affiliation, and insurance coverage. By taking these factors into account, you can find a doctor who will provide you with the care and support you need during this critical time.
If you’re looking for an experienced and compassionate obstetrician, Barbara A. Hessel, MD, FACOG, can help. She has over 25 years of experience and provides personalized care to all patients .She is affiliated with LONG ISLAND JEWISH MEDICAL CENTER – Northwell – one of the top hospitals in the US Dr Hessel accepts most major insurance policies, including Emblem Health, United Healthcare/Oxford, Aetna , Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Medicare Schedule an appointment with our certified obstetrician in Forest Hills, NY today.