The Best Pediatricians in the DC Area

Ready to find the best pediatrician for your family? I remember the many choices preparing for the birth of my first child – searching for things like the best strollers and baby carriers, bottles and feeding techniques. Between recommendations from friends and internet searches (thank you Lucie’s List!), I felt like these decisions were pretty easy to navigate.

One big choice that was harder, though, was finding the right pediatrician. I couldn’t just choose the one my friend recommended – I needed one who took my family’s health insurance, I needed one who was convenient, and I needed one who I trust and whose style matched my family’s.

To be honest, I did not pick well! I prioritized convenience over experience and found myself regularly frustrated with my interactions at the office.

Luckily, this was like so many other decisions we make as parents – nothing is final, everything is salvageable. I did some more research and found an incredible pediatrician my children and I both love, and we haven’t looked back. I hope this resource helps you find your best-fit pediatrician, too!

We are honored to participate in the care of your children! Watching your children grow is a wonderful and exciting experience. The changes happen so quickly, and it is a marvel that this tiny miracle you created gradually becomes a little person with a personality that is unique and special.

The doctors and staff at Potomac Pediatrics have been watching with pride for the past 23 years as the children in our community grow. Our team is committed to delivering comprehensive medical care with robust ancillary services that include classes, parenting resources, lactation specialist, telehealth appointments, same day sick visit care and mental health services for your child.

As your medical home, we know how to address your family’s health and lifestyle needs.

There’s no one-size-fits-all model of the ideal pediatrician. Every family has their own priorities and non-negotiables and finding doctors or practices that fit yours preferences can help narrow your search.

Here are some questions our readers suggest you ask:

Insurance

This is usually #1! Does the doctor take your insurance? Does the doctor take insurance at all? If they don’t, will they submit your bills for you or is that responsibility on you?

Office Location

Is the practice standalone or part of a larger medical complex? Some families prefer the boutique feel of a standalone office, while others like being at a larger facility that houses other practices and specialities that can handle other medical issues that may arise. Does the doctor do house calls (there are some concierge practices in the area!)?

Office Layout

What is the waiting area like? Is there a separate space for newborns and older kids? What about sick visits versus well child visits?

Staffing

Will your child see the same doctor each visit or with the pediatrician vary? Will your pediatrician be available for sick visits or is a different team responsible for those? Can you make appointments with nurse practitioners? The DC area is home to several medical schools. Will a student or resident ever see your baby?

Hours

Does the practice offer weekend appointments or appointments early in the morning or after work hours? What is the procedure if you need medical assistance after office hours?

Alignment

Do you prefer a more traditional or more holistic practice? Does the practice align with your family’s wishes about your children’s health?