Top 25 Pediatricians Across the US
Verified from CMS provider data, updated monthly. Click any provider to see credentials, insurance acceptance, and patient resources.
What is a Pediatrician?
Learn about this specialty, training requirements, and when to schedule a visit.
A pediatrician is a medical doctor (M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in the health, growth, and development of children from birth through adolescence, typically until age 18-21. Pediatricians provide preventive care, diagnose and treat childhood illnesses, monitor developmental milestones, and offer guidance to parents on nutrition, safety, and behavior.
Training and Qualifications
Becoming a pediatrician requires extensive education and training:
- 4 years of medical school to earn an M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) or D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree
- 3 years of specialized pediatric residency training in an accredited program, focusing on child development, growth milestones, childhood diseases, and both inpatient and outpatient pediatric care
- Optional 2-3 year fellowship training in subspecialties like pediatric cardiology, neonatology, pediatric emergency medicine, developmental-behavioral pediatrics, or adolescent medicine
- Board certification through the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP), valid for 10 years with ongoing maintenance through continuing medical education and recertification
Board Certification: American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) - certifies pediatricians who have completed approved residency training and passed comprehensive examinations. Board certification demonstrates expertise in child health and commitment to maintaining high standards through continuous learning and Maintenance of Certification (MOC) requirements.
When Should You See a Pediatrician?
You should consider seeing a pediatrician if:
- Well-child checkups and preventive care (recommended at 2-4 weeks, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 15 months, 18 months, 2 years, then annually)
- Your child has a fever, especially in infants under 3 months
- Ear pain, respiratory infections, or persistent cough
- Rashes, skin conditions, or allergic reactions
- Concerns about growth, development, or developmental delays
- Behavioral or emotional concerns (tantrums, anxiety, ADHD symptoms)
- Acute illnesses (stomach bugs, flu, strep throat, urinary tract infections)
- School or sports physicals
- Vaccinations and immunizations
- Your child has a chronic condition requiring specialized pediatric management
Key Facts
Common Conditions Treated
Pediatricians are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common conditions that pediatricians help patients manage.
Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) and Common Cold
Viral infections of the nose, throat, and airways that are extremely common in children, especially those in daycare or school. Children can have 6-8 colds per year, particularly in the first few years of life.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians assess whether the illness is viral (requiring supportive care) or bacterial (requiring antibiotics). They check for complications like ear infections or pneumonia, provide guidance on symptom management (saline drops, humidifiers, fever management), advise when to return if symptoms worsen, and educate parents on realistic expectations for illness duration.
Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
Inflammation and infection of the middle ear, very common in young children due to shorter, more horizontal eustachian tubes. About 5 out of 6 children will have at least one ear infection by age 3.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians diagnose ear infections through otoscopic examination of the ear drum, determine whether antibiotics are necessary (based on severity, age, and symptoms), provide pain management recommendations, and monitor for recurrent infections that may require referral to an ENT specialist for ear tubes.
Asthma
A chronic respiratory condition causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties. Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in children, affecting about 1 in 12 children in the United States.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians diagnose asthma through symptom history, physical examination, and sometimes spirometry (lung function testing) in older children. They prescribe controller medications (inhaled corticosteroids) for daily use and rescue inhalers (albuterol) for acute symptoms, create asthma action plans for home and school, identify triggers, and monitor lung function over time.
Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by viral infections like rotavirus or norovirus. Gastroenteritis is very common in children and can lead to dehydration if not properly managed.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians assess hydration status and provide guidance on oral rehydration (electrolyte solutions, small frequent sips), advise on feeding during illness (continuing breastfeeding, bland foods when ready), identify warning signs requiring immediate attention (severe dehydration, bloody stools, prolonged symptoms), and determine if testing is needed to rule out bacterial causes.
Skin Conditions (Eczema, Diaper Rash, Rashes)
Various skin problems common in children, including atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, viral rashes, diaper rash, and other inflammatory skin conditions. About 10-20% of children develop eczema.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians diagnose the type of skin condition through examination, prescribe appropriate treatments (topical steroids, emollients, antifungal creams), provide skin care education (bathing techniques, moisturizer use), identify triggers (foods, soaps, fabrics), and refer to pediatric dermatologists for severe or persistent cases.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning and development. ADHD affects about 9% of children in the United States.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians screen for ADHD using standardized rating scales completed by parents and teachers (Vanderbilt, Conners), conduct comprehensive developmental and behavioral assessments, rule out other causes (hearing problems, learning disabilities, anxiety), prescribe stimulant or non-stimulant medications when appropriate, coordinate with schools for educational accommodations (504 plans, IEPs), and provide behavioral management strategies for parents.
Strep Throat (Streptococcal Pharyngitis)
A bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils caused by Group A Streptococcus. Strep throat is most common in children ages 5-15 and requires antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians perform rapid strep tests or throat cultures to confirm diagnosis, prescribe antibiotics (penicillin or amoxicillin) to treat the infection and prevent complications like rheumatic fever, provide guidance on pain management and fever reduction, advise on return to school (24 hours after starting antibiotics), and educate about completing the full antibiotic course.
Developmental Delays and Behavioral Concerns
Delays or differences in reaching developmental milestones (motor skills, language, social skills, cognitive abilities) or concerning behaviors. Early identification and intervention are critical for optimal outcomes.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians screen for developmental delays at well-child visits using standardized tools (ASQ, M-CHAT for autism), conduct developmental assessments, refer to specialists (developmental-behavioral pediatricians, neurologists) or early intervention programs when delays are identified, coordinate comprehensive evaluations, and advocate for educational services and therapies (speech, occupational, physical therapy).
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Bacterial infections of the urinary system (bladder, kidneys, ureters, urethra) that are relatively common in children, especially girls. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent kidney damage.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians diagnose UTIs through urinalysis and urine culture (collected via clean catch or catheterization in young children), prescribe appropriate antibiotics based on culture results, assess for underlying anatomical abnormalities in children with recurrent UTIs (ordering kidney ultrasounds or voiding cystourethrograms), and provide education on prevention (adequate fluid intake, proper wiping technique).
Immunizations and Preventive Care
Routine vaccinations and preventive healthcare to protect children from serious diseases and promote healthy development. The CDC recommends a schedule of vaccines starting at birth and continuing through adolescence.
Key Symptoms
Treatment Approach
Pediatricians provide evidence-based vaccination schedules following CDC and AAP guidelines, administer vaccines for diseases like measles, polio, whooping cough, HPV, flu, COVID-19, and more, monitor growth and development at well-child visits, screen for vision and hearing problems, provide anticipatory guidance on nutrition, safety, sleep, and behavior, and address parental concerns about vaccine safety with scientific evidence.
Important Note
This list represents common conditions but is not exhaustive. Pediatricians treat many other conditions related to their specialty. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns, consult with a qualified pediatrician for a proper evaluation.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Understanding what happens during your appointment can help you feel more prepared. Here's what you can typically expect when visiting a pediatrician.
Your First Visit
- Newborn visit or new patient intake (30-45 minutes) - For newborns, the first visit is typically within 3-5 days after hospital discharge. For older children, you'll complete intake forms with medical history, birth history, developmental milestones, and family health history
- Growth measurements - Your child will be measured for weight, length/height, and head circumference (for infants). These measurements are plotted on growth charts to track growth patterns over time
- Physical examination - A thorough head-to-toe examination checking heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, eyes, ears, reflexes, and overall development. For newborns, this includes checking for jaundice, umbilical cord healing, and feeding patterns
- Developmental screening - Assessment of age-appropriate developmental milestones (motor skills, language, social interaction, cognitive abilities). The pediatrician will ask about what your child can do and observe interactions
- Vaccinations (if due) - If age-appropriate vaccines are due, they will be administered according to the CDC schedule. The pediatrician will explain which vaccines are being given and answer questions about vaccine safety
- Anticipatory guidance and parent education - Discussion of what to expect in the coming months (sleep, feeding, behavior, safety), injury prevention (car seats, childproofing), nutrition recommendations, and when to call with concerns. You'll schedule the next well-child visit
Diagnosis & Testing
- Physical Examination: Comprehensive assessment including vital signs, growth measurements, and examination of all body systems tailored to the child's age and presenting concerns
- Developmental Screening Tools: Standardized questionnaires and assessments like ASQ (Ages & Stages Questionnaires), M-CHAT (autism screening), and milestone checklists to identify delays
- Rapid Tests: In-office rapid testing for strep throat, flu, RSV, COVID-19, and urinary tract infections to provide quick diagnosis and start treatment promptly
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests (complete blood count, lead screening, metabolic panels), urine tests, throat cultures, or stool studies when indicated by symptoms
- Vision and Hearing Screening: Age-appropriate screening for vision problems and hearing loss, critical for identifying issues that could affect learning and development
- Imaging Studies: X-rays for suspected fractures, chest X-rays for pneumonia, abdominal ultrasounds, or other imaging when necessary for diagnosis
Treatment Options
- Medications: Pediatric-appropriate medications with weight-based dosing for infections (antibiotics), fever/pain (acetaminophen, ibuprofen), asthma (inhalers), ADHD (stimulants), and other conditions
- Immunizations: Routine childhood vaccines following CDC schedules to prevent serious diseases like measles, polio, whooping cough, meningitis, HPV, and flu
- Supportive Care and Home Management: Guidance on managing illnesses at home with rest, hydration, fever management, symptom relief, and education on when to seek urgent care
- Behavioral Interventions: Strategies for managing behavioral issues, sleep problems, feeding challenges, and developmental concerns through parent coaching and behavioral techniques
- Referrals to Specialists: Coordination with pediatric subspecialists (cardiologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, surgeons) when complex or specialized care is needed
- Care Coordination: Working with schools, therapists (speech, occupational, physical), and other providers to ensure comprehensive care, especially for children with chronic conditions or special needs
- Preventive Counseling: Anticipatory guidance on nutrition, sleep, safety (car seats, helmets, poison prevention), injury prevention, screen time limits, and healthy habits
Tip for Your Visit
Bring a list of current medications, previous test results, and questions you want to ask. Writing down your symptoms—when they occur and what affects them—helps your pediatrician provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
How to Choose the Right Pediatrician
Finding the right healthcare provider is important for your health and peace of mind. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a pediatrician.
Credentials to Verify
- Verify medical degree (M.D. or D.O.) and active state medical license
- Check for board certification by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP)
- Look for fellowship training if your child has special healthcare needs
- Review where the pediatrician completed residency training
- Check for any disciplinary actions through your state medical board
Important Considerations
- Hospital affiliations (where will your child be admitted if hospitalization is needed?)
- Office location, hours, and availability of same-day sick visits
- Accepts your insurance plan
- Availability of after-hours nurse triage lines or on-call coverage
- Communication style and whether you feel heard and respected
- Office policies on newborn care, breastfeeding support, and developmental screening
- Compatibility with your parenting philosophy (vaccines, antibiotics, alternative medicine)
- Experience with any specific conditions your child has (asthma, food allergies, autism, etc.)
- Availability of patient portal for messaging, appointment scheduling, and viewing records
Quick Tip
Don't hesitate to schedule consultations with multiple pediatricians before making your decision. The right fit isn't just about credentials—it's also about feeling comfortable and confident in your care.
Cost and Insurance Information
Understanding the costs associated with seeing a pediatrician can help you plan for your healthcare needs.
Average Costs (Without Insurance)
Initial Visit
$100-$250
Follow-up Visit
$75-$200
Common Procedures
Note: These are estimated average costs and can vary based on location, provider, and specific services required.
Insurance Coverage
- Most pediatricians accept major insurance plans (Blue Cross, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, etc.)
- Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), well-child visits and immunizations are covered as preventive care with no copay
- Sick visits are typically subject to your regular copay (often $20-$50 for primary care)
- The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides free vaccines to children who are Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, or underinsured
- Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides low-cost coverage for children in families who earn too much for Medicaid
- Check if your pediatrician is in-network before scheduling to avoid higher out-of-network costs
- Most insurance plans cover developmental screening, vision screening, and hearing screening as part of well-child visits
Medicare Information
Medicare does not typically cover children. However, children with disabilities may qualify for Medicare regardless of age if they receive Social Security Disability benefits.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1Always verify your pediatrician is in-network before scheduling
- 2Ask about self-pay discounts if you don't have insurance
- 3Inquire about payment plans for expensive procedures
- 4Get prior authorization when required to avoid claim denials
- 5Use FSA or HSA funds for eligible medical expenses
Questions to Ask Your Pediatrician
Being prepared for your appointment helps you get the most out of your time with your doctor. Here are important questions to consider asking a pediatrician.
Is my child's growth and development on track for their age?
What vaccines does my child need, and what are the potential side effects?
What are the signs that I should bring my child in for a sick visit vs. going to the ER?
How can I tell if my child's symptoms need antibiotics or if it's a viral illness?
What should I do if my child has a fever, and when is it concerning?
Are there any developmental milestones I should watch for at this age?
What are healthy eating and activity guidelines for my child's age?
When should I consider seeing a pediatric specialist for this issue?
How can I help my child with sleep issues or behavioral concerns?
What safety precautions should I take at home for my child's age group?
Pro Tip
Write down your questions before your appointment and bring them with you. Don't hesitate to take notes during your visit or ask for written instructions.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Know when symptoms require immediate attention versus a scheduled appointment.
While most conditions can wait for a scheduled appointment with a pediatrician, certain symptoms require immediate emergency care. Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or bluish skin color (especially around lips)
- High fever in infants under 3 months (100.4°F or higher) - requires immediate evaluation
- Signs of dehydration: no wet diapers for 6+ hours, sunken fontanelle, no tears when crying
- Severe allergic reaction: hives, face/throat swelling, difficulty breathing
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea with inability to keep fluids down
- Severe headache with stiff neck, sensitivity to light (signs of meningitis)
- Seizures or convulsions
- Loss of consciousness or unusual drowsiness that's difficult to awaken
EMERGENCY
Call 911 or nearest ER
URGENT
Doctor or urgent care
NON-URGENT
Regular appointment
Pediatrician vs. Other Specialists
Understanding the differences between medical specialists helps you choose the right provider for your needs.
Pediatrician vs. Family Medicine Physician
Pediatricians specialize exclusively in children's health from birth through adolescence, with specific training in childhood development, pediatric diseases, and child-specific dosing. Family medicine physicians treat patients of all ages and can care for the whole family, but may have less specialized pediatric training.
Pediatrician vs. Pediatric Subspecialist
General pediatricians provide comprehensive primary care for children. Pediatric subspecialists (cardiologists, neurologists, etc.) have additional fellowship training in specific organ systems or conditions. Pediatricians refer to subspecialists for complex or rare conditions.
Pediatrician vs. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Pediatricians are physicians (MD or DO) with medical school plus 3-year pediatric residency. Pediatric nurse practitioners have nursing degrees with advanced practice training in pediatrics. Both can provide excellent well-child care and treat common illnesses.
Pediatrician vs. Urgent Care Center
Pediatricians provide ongoing primary care, preventive services, and continuity of care. Urgent care is for after-hours acute illnesses when your pediatrician isn't available. Your pediatrician knows your child's full history and can coordinate all aspects of their care.
Not sure which specialist you need?
Your primary care physician can help determine the right specialist for your condition and provide a referral if needed.
Sources & References
Information about pediatricians is sourced from peer-reviewed medical literature and authoritative organizations.
Last updated: March 2026
Read our editorial standardsFind Pediatricians by City
Browse pediatricians in top cities across the United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about pediatricians
What's the difference between a pediatrician and a family medicine doctor for children?
Pediatricians complete 3 years of residency training focused 100% on children's health, development, and diseases from birth through adolescence. Family medicine doctors train in caring for patients of all ages but spend only about 10% of their time treating children. Pediatricians have more specialized expertise in childhood illnesses, developmental issues, and pediatric medication dosing. However, both are qualified to provide primary care for children, and the choice often depends on family preference and whether you want one doctor for the whole family.
How often does my child need to see the pediatrician?
For the first year, well-child visits are recommended at 2-4 weeks, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months. In the second year, visits are typically at 15 months, 18 months, and 24 months. From ages 2-21, annual well-child checkups are recommended. Additional sick visits will occur as needed for illnesses, injuries, or concerns. This frequent schedule allows pediatricians to monitor growth, development, and provide timely vaccinations.
What vaccines will my child receive?
Children receive vaccines protecting against 14+ serious diseases following the CDC schedule: Hepatitis B, rotavirus, DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough), Hib, pneumococcal, polio, flu, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), varicella (chickenpox), Hepatitis A, HPV (ages 11-12), meningococcal, and COVID-19. Most vaccines are given during the first 2 years, with boosters in preschool and adolescence. Your pediatrician will explain each vaccine, address safety concerns, and provide a written schedule.
When should I call the pediatrician versus going to the emergency room?
Call 911 or go to the ER immediately for: difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness or extreme lethargy, seizures, severe injury, suspected poisoning, or infant under 3 months with fever over 100.4°F. Call your pediatrician's office for: fever in older infants/children, vomiting/diarrhea with dehydration concerns, suspected ear infections, rashes, mild injuries, or general health questions. Most pediatric offices have nurse triage lines to help you decide the appropriate level of care.
Will my pediatrician see my child through high school?
Most pediatricians care for children from birth through age 18, and some extend care to age 21, especially for patients with special healthcare needs or chronic conditions. Around age 18-21, your pediatrician will help transition your child to an adult primary care physician (internist or family medicine doctor). This transition process includes transferring medical records and ensuring continuity of care for any ongoing health issues.
How do I know if my child's development is on track?
Pediatricians screen for developmental delays at specific well-child visits using standardized tools and milestone checklists. Key milestones include smiling by 2 months, sitting by 6 months, walking by 15 months, and using two-word phrases by 24 months. If you have concerns about your child's motor skills, speech, social interaction, or behavior, bring them up at any visit—early intervention makes a significant difference. The CDC's Milestone Tracker app is a helpful resource between visits.
Can I switch pediatricians if I'm not happy?
Yes, you can switch pediatricians at any time. Common reasons include moving, insurance changes, communication issues, or simply wanting a different approach. To switch: (1) Find a new pediatrician accepting new patients and your insurance, (2) Schedule a visit with the new practice, (3) Request your medical records be transferred from your old pediatrician to the new one. Most pediatric offices are very understanding about switches and will facilitate the transfer.
What should I bring to my child's appointment?
Bring: (1) Insurance card and photo ID, (2) Your child's immunization record (if you have it), (3) List of current medications and supplements, (4) Diaper bag basics (diapers, wipes, snacks, toys), (5) Questions or concerns written down so you don't forget, (6) Comfort item for your child (favorite stuffed animal, blanket), and (7) Medical records from other providers if seeing a new pediatrician. For well visits, bring your child's growth book or app if you track milestones.
Do pediatricians treat teenagers and adolescents?
Yes, pediatricians are trained in adolescent medicine and address teen-specific health issues including puberty, acne, sports injuries, mental health (depression, anxiety), sexual health, contraception, eating disorders, substance use, and school performance. Pediatricians respect adolescent confidentiality and often speak with teens privately during part of the visit. Some pediatricians have additional fellowship training in adolescent medicine for complex teen health issues.
Are same-day sick visits available?
Most pediatric practices reserve same-day appointments for acute illnesses and injuries. Call your pediatrician's office first thing in the morning for the best availability. Many offices also offer after-hours urgent care clinics or partner with urgent care centers for evenings and weekends. For non-urgent concerns, you can often get advice from a nurse triage line or schedule a regular appointment within a few days.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911. Our editorial standards