It’s one of the biggest decisions you make before your baby is born. Which pediatrician is the right one for your child? Before you start your search, take a few minutes to learn exactly what this kind of doctor does. It will help you make a better choice and know what to expect when your little one arrives.

Pediatricians are doctors who manage the health of your child, including physical, behavior, and mental health issues. They’re trained to diagnose and treat childhood illnesses, from minor health problems to serious diseases.

Pediatricians have an education that gives them special skills to take care of your child’s health. They graduated from medical school and completed a 3-year residency program in pediatrics.

You’ll want to find one who’s also “board-certified.” That means they’ve passed rigorous exams given by the American Board of Pediatrics. To stay certified, pediatricians have to meet regular education requirements.

What Does Your Pediatrician Do?

They’ll see your child many times from birth to age 2 and once a year from ages 2 to 5 for “well-child visits.” After age 5, your pediatrician will likely continue to see your child every year for annual checkups. They’re also the first person to call whenever your child is sick.

To take care of your child, your pediatrician will:

• Do physical exams
• Give your child vaccinations
• Make sure she meets milestones in growth, behavior, and skills
• Diagnose and treat your child’s illnesses, infections, injuries, and other health problems
• Give you information about your child’s health, safety, nutrition, and fitness needs
• Answer your questions about your little one’s growth and development
• Refer you to specialists if they think your child needs expert care

How Does Your Pediatrician Work With Your Delivery Team?

Most hospitals ask if you have a pediatrician when you go in to deliver. Your baby’s first examination may be with a hospital pediatrician or your chosen pediatrician. It depends on the hospital’s policy and whether your newborn’s doctor makes rounds there. If a hospital pediatrician checks your baby, they’ll send your pediatrician notes about the exam.

After you leave the hospital, your pediatrician will see your baby 48 to 72 hours later, and regularly after that for checkups.