The Best Pediatricians in St. Louis: A Local Mom’s Guide
As you prepare to welcome your little one, from self-care to baby-proofing your home, the to-do list can feel never-ending!
But it’s time to search for the best pediatrician who will be there for your newborn. This process isn’t just about finding medical experts but also about finding warm, approachable, and caring individuals.
The best pediatrician for your baby will depend on a combination of where you build the foundation for their health and with whom you create that supportive and trusting partnership.
Choosing the Best Pediatrician for Your Children
Choosing the best pediatrician is vital because babies and children can't express what's wrong when they're unwell. So, a skilled pediatrician assesses their health with the patience and kindness your little one deserves. This will boost your confidence that they’re in safe hands!
This sense of security extends to emergencies too. You'll have a plan on what to do and a trusted doctor that aligns with your practical needs, from convenient location to appointment availability, insurance coverage, and an attentive staff who will listen to your concerns.
When to Start Searching and What to Look For
The best time to start looking for the best pediatrician is during your 2nd trimester. This gives you ample opportunity to find what will work for your family best!
But building a relationship with your child’s future pediatrician is tough when you’re unsure how to pinpoint the best choice. As a mom who was in your shoes a few years ago, here’s what I recommend you prioritize when searching pediatricians:
Referrals
Online reviews can be overwhelming, making personal referrals a more reliable source.
If you have family or friends in town, seek their recommendations based on their experiences. For newcomers though, I suggest participating in online parenting groups to ask for recommendations and then conduct your own research to find the right fit.
Remember that what works for other families won’t necessarily work for yours, and vice versa!
Location, Accessibility and Availability
Do you prefer a nearby clinic or traveling across town? Taking your transportation options and convenience into account is important!
Additionally, explore their availability, including office hours, same-day appointments, and even walk-ins for unexpected medical needs. Don't overlook confirming if they're accepting new patients, as it streamlines the process of securing care for your little one.
Insurance Compatibility
You got a pediatrician you love and then you find that your insurance doesn’t cover them...It’s not fun!
Make sure they’re within your insurance network first and make notes of logistics like copay fees and deductibles to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Credentials and Affiliations with Hospitals
After compiling a list, read up on their credentials and experience, noting if they have subspecialties that might help with handling complex medical issues.
Also consider their hospital affiliations since that’s where your child would be admitted if necessary.
Emergency Services Protocol
Inquire about your chosen pediatrician's emergency services protocol to understand how your child's well-being will be handled during unexpected medical situations during after-hours and weekends.
The Best Pediatricians in St. Louis
Having lived in St. Louis and raised my children here, I’ve got experience with a few doctors that I believe are some of the best pediatricians in the greater St. Louis and St. Charles area. I’m sharing the list below to help you get started on your search!
Dr. Randy Agolia, MD | O’Fallon Pediatrics
http://ofallonpeds.com/doctor/dr-randy-agolia
https://physicians.wustl.edu/people/randy-agolia-md/
I’ve visited Dr. Agolia with my own children and highly recommend his practice! He’s kind and attentive and I specially love that he is born and raised in St. Louis. He received his B.A. and M.D. at St. Louis University and completed his residency at Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
Dr. Lorena Buffa, MD | Cloverleaf Pediatrics
https://cloverleafpediatrics.wustl.edu/
https://physicians.wustl.edu/people/lorena-buffa-md/
Dr. Buffa is another pediatrician I personally recommend! Her practice philosophy on creating a healthy parent-pediatrician partnership speaks volumes and makes you feel like your children are in the best care! She received her B.A. and M.D. at the University of Missouri and completed her residency at Cardinal Clennon Children’s Hospital too!
Dr. Jennifer Horst, MD | Children’s Clinic
https://childrensclinic.wustl.edu/
https://physicians.wustl.edu/people/jennifer-horst-md/
Dr. Horst is a highly recommended pediatrician from mom friends I know. I also personally worked alongside her at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in the emergency department, she is a truly caring individual! She is board certified in both Pediatrics and Pediatric Emergency Medicine. She completed her undergraduate and M.D. from the University of Missouri and did her residency at Washington University in St. Louis.
Dr. Kora Felsch, MD | St. Louis Pediatric Associates
https://www.stlpeds.com/dr-felsch
https://doctors.stlukes-stl.com/details/361/kora-felsch-pediatrics-chesterfield
Dr. Felsch completed her B.S. at Boston College but then came to our home state to complete her M.D. at the University of Missouri! Later she completed her residency in Pediatrics at the St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Dr. Joel Koenig, MD | Town & Country Pediatrics
https://www.tcpeds.net/Default.aspx
Dr. Koenig founded his practice that’s been serving families since 1990. He completed his undergraduate degree at Yale University and then his M.D. from Vanderbilt Medical School. He also completed a fellowship training in Neonatology (subspecialty that consists of medical care for newborn infants, especially ill and premature newborns) and is board certified for it too!
Dr. David Hartenbach | St. Louis Children’s Hospital Specialty Care Center
https://findadoctor.bjc.org/find-doctor/david-e-hartenbach-md/1154302131
Dr. Hartenbach completed his M.D from University of Missouri and his residency in Pediatrics at the St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
Final Tips for Choosing a Pediatrician
When making the final decision on your child's future pediatrician, consider these 3 tips:
Meet with potential candidates: Ask questions about their childcare approach, ensuring it aligns with your values and preferences
Reflect on your compatibility: Think about the potential for a long-term, trusting relationship with them
Trust your instincts: This will lead you to the perfect fit for your family's healthcare needs
Taking your time to select the right pediatrician is crucial for your child's well-being. And even if you felt you chose right the first time, it's okay to revisit your choice if something feels off!
For additional resources, consider checking websites for pediatric associations and directories to further support your search for pediatric care in the St. Louis area!
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