If you are looking for a new doctor you may be wondering about tips for choosing a doctor. Finding the right doctor is important. You need someone that will work with you, listen to your concerns, show you respect, and is knowledgeable of your specific medical needs. However, many of us are left wondering exactly how we find all that in a doctor. No worries, I have you covered with these 7 tips for choosing a doctor.
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1. Ask for Recommendations
Ask your family and friends about their doctors. You want to know about the doctor’s bedside manner, how they handle different situations, and what they have done when they weren’t completely sure on a diagnosis. Listen to what others have to say about their personal experience with the physicians but don’t let one bad review turn you off. Keep reading if you want more tips for choosing a doctor.
2. Insurance
Check your insurance. It is very likely that your insurance will only allow you to see certain doctors. It would be horrible to see a doctor that doesn’t accept your insurance and end up paying a hefty bill. I suggest starting your search with insurance approved doctors.
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3. Type of Doctor
What kind of doctor do you need? You probably don’t want to make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to if you are having problems with your girly parts. Ha! Could you imagine how horrible that would be? If you are searching for a doctor for your child, you will have to consider if you want a family practice doctor or a pediatrician. Everyone has their preferences, you just have to find what will suit you best.
4. Location
How far do you want to drive to see your doctor? Sometimes this question isn’t relevant. If you find a doctor that you feel is best suited for your care, you may not mind a longer drive, but for some people travel time is just as important. Take into consideration your travel needs when choosing a doctor.
5. Hospital Association
Most doctors are associated with specific hospitals in your area. If you are looking for a doctor that may have to do surgery on you, it is important to consider the hospital that doctor is associated with. Are you comfortable with his hospital association? How do you feel about the patient care given at that hospital?
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6. Staff
While the doctor's patient care is the most important, it is also good to consider the office staff. Rude nurses and front desk staff are not fun to deal with, especially if you are sick or in pain. If you have ever deal with unfriendly staff, you know exactly what I am talking about.
7. Doctor Interview
If you have taken all these things into consideration and you are still having trouble choosing the right doctor, consider making an appoint to interview the doctors on your list. This is actually a common practice. During your appointment you can address your concerns with each doctor before you make your final choice.
What tips for choosing a doctor do you have? Please share them in the comments below. If you are in the market for a new doctor I hope that you have found these tips helpful and interesting. Let me know how the process has gone for you.