Akron Children’s Hospital primary care practices launch telehealth option for pediatrician interviews

11-23-2020 (Akron, Ohio )

Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics and the Locust Pediatric Care Group now offer free provider interviews via telehealth.

“We’ve always offered in-person interviews for expectant parents who are choosing a provider for their babies – or parents who want to change their child’s primary care provider,” said Ben Teske, director of primary care operations at Akron Children’s Hospital. “Offering these interviews by telehealth/video provides a convenient and safe option as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Every Akron Children’s primary care provider who is accepting new patients offers telehealth interviews. Visit akronchildrens.org/pediatrics for office locations and provider information. To schedule a telehealth interview, parents should call the Akron Children’s Hospital Pediatrics office of their choice or Locust Pediatric Care Group. Parents will receive an email the day before the appointment that includes the video link for the telehealth visit.

During the interview, parents can ask about the provider’s education and years of experience; philosophy on everything from vaccines to potty-training; and learn about office hours, appointment availability and after-hours coverage. If parents don’t make a connection with the provider during the telehealth interview, they are welcome to schedule an interview with a different provider.

For expectant parents, Akron Children’s recommends choosing a provider in the third trimester of pregnancy.

“Choosing your baby’s primary care provider is a big decision,” Teske said. “It’s important to feel comfortable with the provider because you could be partners in your child’s health care for 18 years.”