During my first full-term pregnancy, I did everything "by the book." I took excellent care of myself - I ate right, exercised, slept, took prenatal vitamins, kept up with my OB visits, and so on.
And I made what I thought to be the necessary preparations - my beloved husband and I took a breastfeeding class and a newborn 101 class (both at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Hurst-Euless-Bedford); months in advance, I made the appropriate arrangements for maternity leave; I washed all the baby clothes in special laundry detergent; I read daily to my growing tummy; to name a few activities.
The one thing I did not do was select a pediatrician. I assumed that once you got to the hospital, you were just assigned a pediatrician who was on call. (I know the books say to go on multiple pediatrician go-sees/interviews while you're pregnant - but really, who has time for that?!)
So, from my hospital bed - I believe I'd already dilated to a three - I was totally surprised to learn that I HAD to name my soon-to-be-born baby's pediatrician BEFORE I delivered (which I thought could be any minute - HA!!!).
Thank goodness for 1-877-THR-WELL and the "find a physician" option! No joke - I called them from the bed and in less than 10 minutes, I had the name and contact information of a pediatrician with privileges at my Texas Health hospital of choice who accepted my health insurance and was accepting new patients. What a relief!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My paper work was completed just in time for the most terrible pain I've ever felt to begin - and my wonderful (and honest) nurse told me that wasn't even the half of what I was going to feel. So I had an epidural and, 12 hours later, gave birth to a healthy, beautiful, amazing baby boy.
It was definitely an unforgettable day!
Inspired by my experience, and as my husband and I prepare for the arrival of our daughter in June, I'm proud to say that my hospital is the first ever to offer a Pediatrician Doc Shop.
In one location, meet and interview ("speed-dating" style) several pediatricians on the medical staff at Texas Health HEB. Then pick the one who you think will be best for your family.
Our first session is March 23. Reservations are necessary, as appointments are limited. Visit TexasHealth.org/DocShop or call 1-877-THR-WELL for more information.
...And if you cannot make it to a Doc Shop - you can always do what I did. We're very happy with our decision!
Mandy Forbus
Senior Marketing Specialist
Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital
Hurst-Euless-Bedford
www.twitter.com/TXHealthMandy
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