An obstetrician – most commonly referred to as an OB/GYN – is a doctor who specializes in pregnancy, labor, delivery and postpartum care. Your obstetrician is going to be with you throughout every stage of your pregnancy, including any issues or complications that may arise. It’s important to choose an obstetrician that you trust and feel comfortable with to ensure a positive pregnancy and childbirth experience.
At SouthLake OB/GYN and Advanced Surgery, our board-certified doctors and skilled medical professionals are here to offer you the best obstetrics and gynecology services. Contact SouthLake OB/GYN today to schedule your appointment.
Your relationship with your obstetrician will be an ongoing one. Therefore, you should never select an obstetrician just because you saw their name in the phone book. As you consider your options, here are a few tips to help you find your obstetrician.
Ask Your Gynecologist
Your search for an obstetrician may be as simple as asking your gynecologist. If you are comfortable with your OB/GYN, and he or she also practices obstetrics, you can ask them to also care for you throughout your pregnancy – especially if you are low risk.
If you are in search of a new obstetrician, your gynecologist can help offer suggestions or recommendations for obstetrics doctors in your area. Friends and relatives are also great resources, and can help with recommendations.
Speak With Your Insurance Company
A quality obstetrician does not come free, and you will eventually be billed for the services your doctor of choice provides. Before selecting your obstetrician, make sure they are in your provider’s network. Candidates you may be considering will normally be very helpful in assisting you in making the determination of whether or not you will be provided the coverage you need.
Compile a List
Create a list of potential obstetricians, and begin making preliminary office phone calls. Speaking with a member of the office staff, or with the doctor can help you get a general feeling for the office environment and. When you call, some of the questions you should ask include:
- Are you taking new patients?
- How long do you have to schedule in advance for appointments?
- Who will see you when the doctor is unavailable?
- Are x-rays and lab work done on site?
- What is the policy for appointment cancellation
- Are evening or weekend appointments available?
- If you have an existing medical condition, is the doctor familiar with and able to treat it?
Meet with Obstetricians
After you have called everyone on your list, it is time to take a chance on one of your prospective obstetricians. This means you need to schedule an appointment. This will give you the opportunity to see the office and meet the doctor and staff, and you can review any remaining questions you may have.
Maintaining a long-lasting relationship with your obstetrician will help you in the future. It is important that you are able to easily communicate with the obstetrician you choose. With the combination of skill and personality, you and your doctor can work together to give you the most positive experience possible throughout your pregnancy, and for any future pregnancies down the road.
To meet with our obstetricians, contact SouthLake OB/GYN today. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.