I was having my first child, and like any over-joyed parent, I was preparing myself and seeking a…read morepediatrician; researching High and Low, I was between two practices [one very conventional, old school] before finally settling on Hales Pediatrics [non-conventional, new-age; see below for examples].
So many reviews wrote how elitist this practice was. I'm so glad I'm a person who forms their own opinion based on personal experience. If you have any doubts, schedule a visit, and go see for yourself. That's what I did; at my tour I received some literature which contained bios on each of the physicians in the practice, the packet of forms and a book for new moms on how to prepare for baby. Of those physicians, I personally opted to see Dr. Milvid. Although their were occasions when she wasn't available I saw others. Dr. Gorman is very good and friendly as well, she was the attending pediatrician at the hospital for my second child.
The only negative, and I don't know if its any different now, but when I was having my son, the physicians of this practice did not perform circumcisions, it worked out for me that the other practice I was looking at did. So the other practice performed it, but ultimately I ended up bringing my son to Hales for his first doctor's appointment.
If you are wondering what the deciding factor was for me in choosing Hales over the other practice, it was Office Administration. I didn't like how the administration handled my queries; they were attitudish, rude, impolite and crass. The doctor on the other hand was not, but before I get in to see the doctor I have to call the office, and that was just not something I was willing or able to do.
The staff of ladies at Hales, have always been pleasant and courteous. However, there was/is one that I feel has personal feelings and seems to be prejudice, but she stands alone in that department. I have never felt it from any other member of the team. I can't completely say that this practice is all about the health of the child; it is a business, a medical one at that. They are in the business of making money, and you are flipping the bill so remember to utilize all the services they provide, if you need them. There were times my child(ren) were not feeling well, I didn't know what to do, I called the emergency line, the messaging center notifies the doctors, and the doctors call you back. Sometimes it can be up to an hour, but I have always received a callback. They are affiliated with Children's Hospital, so they will refer you to After-Hours Care in Metairie or the ER.
Hopefully you will have a great an experience as we have.
Just a Note*
Non-conventional, New-age: child sits on parents lap during visits, combo vaccines, child does not remove all clothes, and all medical questions and test results will be told to you by physician.
