Expecting Parents

EXPECTING

PARENTS

Thank you for choosing LaTouche Pediatrics in to be the primary care home for the newest member of your family!

Below you will find information about our complimentary Meet & Greet with a provider, how to choose LaTouche Pediatrics in Anchorage & Eagle River as your medical home, and the services we provide to all our newborn patients.

Most expecting mothers choose to do their Meet & Greet appointment during their third trimester.

An expecting mother in Anchorage

PARENT REVIEWS

Patient, kind and attentive describes the whole staff at LaTouche!

-Kristin Pickett

MEET & GREET A PROVIDER

mother holding her belly with childWe offer a complimentary prenatal visit in Anchorage and Eagle River, where you will have the opportunity to meet and greet with the provider of your choice. This is an opportunity to meet the provider, learn about LaTouche Pediatrics, and ask any questions you may have.

If you would like to schedule a Meet & Greet with a provider, please call our office  907-562-2120

We ask that you complete the form below, which can be done now or at the time of your visit.

COMMUNICATION BETWEEN DOCTORS

An expecting mother holding an ultrasound picture in Eagle River, AlaskaWe encourage you to tell your obstetrician or midwife that you have chosen a LaTouche provider. Designating LaTouche Pediatrics as your child’s pediatric provider with your OBGYN or Midwife will be important when you go to the hospital to deliver your baby.
 
The hospital will ask who your pediatrician is. Having this information set up ahead of time will allow us to know when to visit you and your new baby during your hospital stay.

ADDING YOUR NEWBORN TO YOUR INSURANCE

couple holding pregnant mothers bellyWhen you are expecting a new baby, health insurance coverage is probably one of the last things on your mind. However, it is important to begin the process before your baby is born. With a little bit of know-how and a few calls, you can have your infant covered by your health insurance in no time.
 
Here are some helpful tips to make the process a little easier for your growing family.
Before Your Baby is Born Check with your health insurance provider to see whether your baby will be added as an individual to your plan or whether you’ll have to upgrade to a family plan after the birth. Find out what your insurance company covers. All insurance companies must provide certain types of newborn coverage under law however, the extent of coverage varies greatly by company. If Mom has her own insurance policy, your newborn might be automatically covered under her plan for the first 30 days after he/she is born. This means that, if you are adding your newborn to your dad’s insurance policy, then your child may be double covered for the first 30 days.
**Check with your insurance to see if they automatically cover newborns.**
 
After Your Baby is Born Call your insurance company within the first 30 days of your baby’s life to add him/her to your insurance policy. If coverage lapses, a baby can be denied coverage and you may have medical bills that go uncovered.

NEWBORN AND HOSPITAL SERVICES

Once your baby is born, one of our pediatricians will be notified by the hospital and will visit you and your new baby during your hospital stay.
 
If you are breastfeeding, our Lactation Consultants can also visit newborns in the hospital to help ensure that our breastfeeding moms and babies get the best start possible.

BREASTFEEDING CONSULTANTS

child breast feeding representing Certified Lactation Consultants at Latouche Pediatrics in Anchorage & Eagle RiverIn addition to being Certified Nurse Practitioners, some of our Nurse Practitioners are also Certified Lactation Consultants.
 
International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are health care professionals who specialize in breastfeeding management. They have demonstrated specialized knowledge and clinical experience in breastfeeding and human lactation. This further education means that lactation consultants are specifically educated in providing assistance to mothers with breastfeeding concerns and questions.
 
Lactation consultants help with a myriad of difficulties including:
  • latching difficulties,
  • painful nursing,
  • low milk production,
  • babies who aren’t gaining enough weight,
  • and general questions about returning to work while breastfeeding, pumping, and safe milk storage.

 

In 2014, LaTouche Pediatrics received the IBCLC Community Care Award for professional lactation support.In 2014, LaTouche Pediatrics received the IBCLC Community Care Award. This award is given to practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing professional lactation support as an integral part of their maternal-child services.
newborn trying to breast feedThe American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding as the sole source of nutrition for infants for six months. They also recommend breastfeeding in combination with solid foods through at least twelve months of age and continued breastfeeding thereafter for as long as mutually desired by mother and baby.

It is our goal at LaTouche Pediatrics, LLC to support you in your decision to breastfeed. Breastfeeding is a skill that requires practice and sometimes skilled instruction.

We have nurses, doctors, and advanced nurse practitioners who are trained to help. Nicole Kopacz is our certified lactation consultant who is available to coach you as you master breastfeeding.

Expecting Parents Frequently Asked Questions

When should I schedule my first pediatric visit?

It’s recommended to schedule your baby’s first visit within the first week after birth. This helps establish care and address any early concerns.

What happens during a prenatal meet & greet?

During the meet & greet, you’ll tour our facility, meet the pediatrician, and discuss any questions or concerns you have about your baby’s care.

Do you offer lactation support?

Yes, our certified lactation consultants provide support to help with breastfeeding challenges.

What should I bring to my baby’s first appointment?

Please bring your baby’s hospital discharge paperwork, any feeding records, and your insurance information.

Can I choose a specific pediatrician for my baby?

Absolutely! You can select a pediatrician based on your preferences and availability. LaTouche offers a free meet & greet before your baby is born so you can become acquainted with your little one’s pediatrician.

How can I prepare for my baby’s first visit?

You can prepare by writing down any questions, ensuring your baby is fed and rested, and bringing along any relevant documents or medical history.

happy, healthy children bonding outside- representing the Puffin Post Newsletter
LATOUCHE PEDIATRICS

VOTED THE PLATINIUM AWARD

FOR BEST PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

FOR 10 YEARS IN A ROW.