Choosing a pediatrician
Before the arrival of your new baby, a lot of preparation takes place. From fun tasks like buying adorable newborn clothes to more practical responsibilities such as getting health insurance for your new baby, the process can feel overwhelming. However, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing your pediatrician.
During the first few years of life, your baby will get sick from time to time, and you will naturally have many questions. Your pediatrician will be an invaluable resource, so it’s essential to find a doctor you connect with—someone who communicates well and shares similar values and perspectives on your child’s care.
For this reason, it is wise to interview several pediatricians before making your decision. Important topics to ask about include:
- The pediatrician's experience
- Their approach to vaccines and breastfeeding
- The pediatrician’s availability and office policies
- Do they see newborns in the hospital?
The relationship you build with your pediatrician will be one of the most important during this stage of life, and it is well worth the time and effort to choose thoughtfully.
What is concierge medicine?
Pediatric concierge medicine offers personalized and comprehensive healthcare experience to children and families. It is a tailored approach to your child’s health with customized wellness plans. As healthcare continues to evolve, families are exploring different ways to interact with their physicians beyond the traditional model, such as through concierge medicine, telehealth, and virtual visits.
Texas Children’s Pediatrics offers concierge medicine as an option for families, who would like more accessibility, convenience and personalized care. In this model, families pay a membership fee for detailed services and more direct access to their physician.
These services often include extended appointment times, expedited scheduling, and 24/7 communication with the pediatrician.
What are the benefits of concierge medicine?
Concierge medicine offers several meaningful advantages for families.
Access
One of the most valued benefits is direct access to your pediatrician via phone or messaging. This level of access can provide significant reassurance, especially when unexpected concerns arise.
Longer appointments
Appointments are longer and more in-depth, often lasting up to an hour for check-ups and newborn visits.
Availability
Same-day or next-day appointments are available. Additionally, your concierge medicine team provides coordination of care within the Texas Children’s network, including referrals to specialty care, urgent care centers and hospitals.
What makes Texas Children’s Concierge Medicine different?
As a leader in pediatric care, Texas Children’s is proud to offer this unique program that combines world-class medical expertise with an exceptional level of personalized service. Patients benefit from direct access to top specialists and the hospital’s extensive resources. For families of children with complex medical needs, being part of Texas Children’s offers the added advantage of quick, direct access to specialized care.
Unlike other concierge programs, members also have access to Texas Children’s urgent care centers across the city, as well as its hospitals and specialty clinics. Families can feel confident knowing their child and family are supported at all times, even after hours.
Who might be interested?
Concierge medicine may be a good fit for families who value a more personalized, one-on-one approach to their child’s healthcare.
- First-time parents, who often have more frequent questions and need reassurance, may find this model particularly helpful.
- Parents of children with complex or specialized medical needs often find this model especially beneficial, as it allows for quicker answers to questions and smoother coordination with specialists.
- Families with multiple children also appreciate the convenience and support concierge care provides in managing busy schedules and overlapping health concerns.
Ultimately, concierge medicine is a matter of preference. For many families, it offers peace of mind, reduces stress, and provides a sense of partnership in keeping their child healthy.
What do concierge medicine families say about it?
Families consistently highlight increased access and dedicated time as some of the most valuable aspects of concierge medicine. Many parents describe their relationship with the pediatrician as close and highly trusted. Here are a few comments from parents:
- “As a working mom of three, having an ‘on call’ doctor when I just want peace of mind about something is such a game changer.”
- “Whether it’s a routine check-up or an urgent concern, Dr. Ho and his team are always there for us. We couldn’t be more grateful for this program!”
- “Beyond the exceptional medical care, the concierge model allows for a true partnership between doctor and patient.”
Whether you are a new parent or have several children, families can appreciate knowing their doctor is readily available, often just a phone call or message away.
How membership works
Our concierge medicine program offers families personalized care with simple, flexible membership options. Annual fees are based on the number of children enrolled, and you can choose to pay all at once or spread payments monthly for added convenience.
Membership can be canceled at any time with just 30 days written notice.
How to Join the Program
To join the program or learn more, please call 832-828-5670 or visit our website at texaschildrens.org/concierge-medicine. Our team will guide you through the enrollment process and support you as you begin your journey toward raising happy, healthy children.