You have already picked out the perfect crib. Your hospital bag is mostly packed, and you’ve probably spent hours browsing the aisles of the local Target in Fayetteville or Springdale, debating which onesie is the softest. But as the "nesting" phase hits its peak, one big question usually remains: Who will be the first person to look after your baby’s health?
Choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important decisions you will make during your pregnancy. In the haze of those first few weeks of parenthood, you don't just need a doctor; you need a partner. That is exactly why we recommend scheduling a prenatal pediatric visit.
At Best Start Pediatrics, we believe that the best way to start your journey into parenthood is with confidence. We offer prenatal consultations for expectant parents right here in Northwest Arkansas to help you feel prepared, supported, and heard long before the first diaper change.
What Exactly Is a Prenatal Pediatric Visit?
Think of a prenatal pediatric visit as a "meet-and-greet" for your baby’s future medical home. It is a scheduled time for you to sit down with a pediatrician, like our practice owner, Dr. Susan Averitt, to discuss how the office works, share your family medical history, and see if our "vibe" matches your parenting style.
It isn't a physical exam for you; it is an interview where you are the one asking the questions. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly encourages these visits, especially for first-time parents, because they lay the foundation for a trusting, long-term relationship.
Why Should You Schedule a Consultation Before Birth?
The days following your return from the hospital will be a whirlwind of feedings, naps (for the baby, hopefully!), and recovery. The last thing you want to do is scramble to find a doctor when your newborn has their first "is this normal?" moment.
1. Build an Immediate Connection
You want to know that the person caring for your child actually listens to you. A prenatal visit lets you experience our personal touch firsthand. You can see how our team, including Jessica Newcomb APRN, Kellie Chacanaca NP, or Bessie Smith, interacts with families.
2. Logistical Peace of Mind
Knowing exactly how to schedule that first appointment, where to park, and how the billing works removes a massive layer of stress. You’ll leave the office knowing exactly what to do the moment your baby is born.
3. Review Your Medical History
If you have had a high-risk pregnancy or there are specific genetic conditions in your family, this visit allows us to create a proactive plan for your baby’s care from day one.
Questions to Ask During Your Prenatal Visit
When you walk into our clinic, you might be greeted by one of our bright, hand-painted murals. While the environment is designed to be fun and relaxing, we know you have serious questions. Here is a checklist of what you should ask to ensure you’ve found the right fit.
Questions About the Office and Access
- Do you offer same-day sick visits? (At Best Start, the answer is yes! If your child is sick, we want to see them today, not next week.)
- How do I reach someone with a quick question? (Ask us about our text messaging line. It’s perfect for those non-emergency "is this rash normal?" questions that don't necessarily require an office visit.)
- What are your office hours? Do you offer evening or Saturday options for working parents?
Questions About Care Philosophy
- What is your approach to breastfeeding support? Whether you are breastfeeding, formula feeding, or doing a bit of both, you need a doctor who supports your choices and provides resources like lactation help.
- What is your philosophy on vaccinations? It is important that your views and your pediatrician's views are in alignment for the safety of your child and the community.
- How do you handle sleep training and newborn crying? New parents often need guidance on safe sleep and coping with the stress of a colicky baby.
Questions About the "First Days"
- When will the baby have their first office visit? Typically, we like to see newborns within 2 to 3 days of leaving the hospital.
- How often are well-child checkups in the first year? Knowing the schedule helps you plan your calendar (and your budget) for the year ahead.
The Best Start Difference: Why NWA Families Choose Us
Northwest Arkansas is a wonderful place to raise a family, from the hiking trails at Devil’s Den to the splash pads in Rogers. But when it comes to healthcare, many parents feel lost in big, corporate systems. We are a privately owned clinic because we believe healthcare should feel personal.
Themed Exam Rooms
Let’s be honest: doctors' offices can be scary for kids. We changed that. Our exam rooms feature vibrant, custom murals: like our Australian Outback room or the Italy-themed space. Instead of a sterile white box, your child might see a mother kangaroo reading to her joey or a colorful hot air balloon. These details help kids feel at ease from their very first visit.
Proactive Communication
We know you live on your phone. That is why we offer a dedicated text line for our patients. It allows you to skip the hold music and get quick answers from our clinical staff for non-emergency concerns.
Expert Care for Every Stage
While we love our newborns, we are here for the long haul. We offer comprehensive care through the teenage years, including adolescent health services and pediatric weight management. We want to be the home your child grows up in.
Preparing for Your First Appointment After Birth
Once you’ve had your prenatal visit and decided that Best Start Pediatrics is the right home for your family, the next step is simple. When your baby arrives, just give us a call!
We will schedule your baby's first newborn care appointment to check their weight, screen for jaundice, and ensure they are hitting those early healthy milestones. We take the time to listen to your concerns, whether you're worried about feeding schedules or just need a little encouragement during the "no-sleep" phase.
Ready to Meet Us?
Don't wait until the car seat is installed and the contractions start. Take a proactive step today and schedule your prenatal pediatric visit. We would love to show you around our clinic, introduce you to Dr. Susan Averitt, and explain how we can support your growing family in Fayetteville, Springdale, and beyond.
Schedule your prenatal consultation here or call us today to join the Best Start family!
Remember
- A prenatal visit is usually free or covered by insurance as a "meet and greet": always check with your provider first.
- Trust your gut. The most important takeaway from a prenatal visit is how comfortable you feel with the doctor.
- Bring your partner. It’s helpful for both parents to hear the office policies and meet the team.
Source:
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Recommendations for Prenatal Pediatric Visits.