You don’t need to look for a pediatrician until you’re about 30 weeks pregnant.  Having said that, if you haven’t had a chance to find one in your last trimester, you can still find one after the baby is born. There are several ways to find a pediatrician in Tampa, Fl. 
The first thing to do is ask your OBGYN or family doctor for a referral.  They have a network of doctors and will be able to refer a few. 
Ask for recommendations from your family and friends. Ask them what they think is paramount when looking for a pediatrician.
The hospital in your area may provide some references as well.
You may also look online to see which pediatrician in the state of Florida has a list of qualities you require.
This list could include:

– Is the pediatrician board certified in family medicine or pediatrics?
– How much experience does the pediatrician have?
– Is the pediatrician in your HMO?
– Does the pediatrician accept your insurance?
– Does it matter if the pediatrician is male or female?
– Are there other pediatricians available to see if mine is unavailable?

Like other medical professionals, not all pediatricians accept new patients as pediatricians not only care for newborn babies but can see children until they are 18. It’s important that when you are choosing a pediatrician, you not only ask them if they are accepting new patients but ask them if they have other pediatricians that will see your child when your regular pediatrician is not there.  It is important that they communicate with you so you know what to expect.

There are several things to consider when looking for a new pediatrician.
 
Location – Is the pediatrician close to your home? It can be challenging at times having a baby in tow.  It may be helpful if your pediatrician’s clinic is close to you.
Experience – What experience does your pediatrician have? Can you verify their credentials? Is it important for you to have an experienced pediatrician?
Availability – Is the pediatrician easily available?  Can you book same-day appointments if needed or do you need to book weeks in advance? What are their office hours? Do they have after-hours availability?
Personality – When you have your initial meet and greet, is the pediatrician welcoming?  Do they answer all your questions and take the time with you to reassure you that your child will be well taken care of?
Interaction – Once you bring your baby there, it’s also important to see how the pediatrician interacts with your newborn.
Insurance – Does the pediatrician accept your insurance? This is an important question to ask to make sure you’re not surprised when it comes to billing.

Yes, you most definitely need to book an appointment with one of the providers at Julia Barriga MD PA. It’s a good idea to book an initial appointment to meet the providers and see if you’re a fit.  
 
The kind and compassionate pediatricians at Julia Barriga MD PA, are accepting new patients and would love to meet you and your baby. Please call or book an appointment online. We are open 6 days a week. We serve patients from Tampa FL, Terrace FL, Thonotosassa FL, Lutz FL, Greater Carrollwood FL, Lake Magdalene FL, Westchase FL, and Town ‘N’ Country FL.