Choosing who you will help you deliver your baby isn’t an easy decision. Having great prenatal care is a crucial part of having a successful childbirth experience. Unsure where to start in your quest to find right the OB provider? We can help. Whether you’re a first-time mother looking or a parent looking to make a switch from your previous OB/GYN provider, these tips can help you find the perfect provider.

Check Your Insurance

The best place to start looking for an OB/GYN is by checking with your insurance. Each insurance provider has a list of providers that are considered “in-network.” And whether your provider is in-network or outside of it determines how much you’ll wind up paying out of pocket. If you already have a provider in mind, we recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify if they’re in your network.

In addition to learning which providers are in-network, it’s also vital to learn the details of your plan’s coverage. Doing so ensures you get the most out of your insurance benefits and pay the least amount of out-of-pocket costs.

You can also call the provider’s office to inquire if they accept your insurance plan.

Consider Their Credentials

Doing your research on possible OB providers is a vital step in making your final decision. Providers with board certifications are high atop the list that you should consider. These distinctions show that that they’ve undergone the necessary training, have the skills, and the experience to provide outstanding care to you and your baby. Also, be sure to investigate if the doctor has any malpractice and inappropriate conduct claims on their record.

Tip: When you find a provider you like, don’t toss your list just yet. Say a few weeks or months later you discover that your doctor isn’t a good fit, you can refer back to your list of back-up providers. Just be sure to communicate this to your provider should you decide to make the switch, that way, both providers have the full story and provide you with the best care.

Need a board-certified provider who offers concierge prenatal care? Contact OB2me healthcare here!

Will a Different Doctor Deliver Your Baby?

A lot of OB/GYN practices have a steady rotation of on-call providers (physicians and Certified nurse-midwives) available, so there’s a possibility that though one provider has treated you throughout the pregnancy, you may deliver with a completely different one. If this idea makes you wildly uncomfortable, then asking your provider about their practices before becoming their patient is the best way to give you peace. They can schedule a time for you to meet some of their colleagues. That way, if you do deliver with them, you’ll be more comfortable and confident.

Get Referrals

There’s no power like the power of word of mouth. During your search for an OB/GYN, a resource you shouldn’t hesitate to use is those around you. Ask your primary care physician for a list of referrals. Your friends and family are excellent resources for referrals, as they’re more inclined to have you and your baby’s health in mind. And if you have an idea of what hospital or birthing center you’d like to deliver in, you can also ask them for suggestions.

After narrowing down your list of possible providers, the next step is to call their office and set up consultations to further help you make a final decision.

Credit: Jonathan Borba

How Do They Handle High-Risk Pregnancies?

If you have any preexisting conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, you could be classified as a high-risk pregnancy. Before deciding which provider is perfect for you, we recommend asking them if they have any experience treating high-risk pregnancies like yours. You may need a specialist in addition to a standard ob provider to provide care for you and your unborn baby.

Where Does the OB Provider Deliver?

Where you want to give birth affects who can deliver your child. Are you considering an at-home birth? Then you’re going to want a provider that is licensed in their state to do so and has a solid transport plan if it becomes necessary. If your plans involve giving birth at a birthing center, you’ll need to make sure the provider you choose has a relationship with your chosen hospital and is allowed to deliver there. Another thing to consider when making your decision is just how far the birthing centers and hospitals are from your home.

Read the Reviews

Similar to how restaurant views influence your decision to eat there, patient reviews influence your decision to include this provider in your birth plan. Reading what other patients have to say about a provider gives insight into their medical practices and the overall experience. You can also gain insight into how well a provider answers questions, their bedside manner, wait times, and whether they offer after-hour support. Your delivery should be as safe and stress-free as possible, and having the right ob provider plays a significant part in that.

Credit: Solen Feyissa

Do They Perform VBACs?

Although this is not a question that first-time mothers need to ask, for those who have previously given birth, it’s important to consider. VBAC stands for “vaginal birth after a cesarean.” It’s common for mothers who underwent a c-section for a previous delivery to want to attempt giving birth vaginally. If you have your heart set on doing so, it’s essential to know your OB provider’s stance.

Their opinion on VBACs can make the difference between whether you’re able to have a traditional birth or be sent back to the operating room. Knowing how an OB provider will handle this procedure plays a part in your decision to deliver with them.

2Me Healthcare: Providing a Better OB/GYN Experience for You

Finding the best OB provider is an absolute must in your journey to motherhood. At 2Me Healthcare, we offer concierge OB care in the privacy and safety of your own home so you don’t have to rush to the doctor’s office or stress about your appointment. Every high-touch service needed to make your extraordinary 9-month journey a stress-free experience is offered in our packages.

As a client, you will have direct 24/7 access to your certified nurse’s midwives, who will also be present during your labor and delivery experience.

If you’re looking for a dedicated, passionate, and attentive OB/GYN team, contact us at 2Me Healthcare or 833-692-6342.