Finding the Right Doctor

When you need expert help, you want to find the best qualified professional. But finding the right doctor is much different than finding a mechanic. Take the time to do the research. Here are three steps to finding the right doctor.

1. Make a List of Potential Doctors

• Start with the network. If your health insurance plan features a specified network, begin your search with those doctors. If you are not limited by the provider network, then you may have more options.
• Ask friends or family for references. One of the strongest reasons to choose a doctor is the recommendation of somebody who is under their care. A doctor’s reputation is based on their patients’ satisfaction. That should tell you something about the quality of their care.
• Check local resources. Check with local hospitals to see if they have a referral service. If you’re moving to a new area, recruit your current doctor to help you find a qualified doctor near your new home.

2. Research and Narrow Your List

• Ask questions. Contact the doctors on your list and ask for information about their background. Some of these questions might include:
  • What is the doctor’s training and education?
  • How long has he or she been in practice?
  • (If important to you) What is the doctor’s age and gender?
  • Is the doctor board-certified? (This requires specialty training.)
• Check for complaints. Contact your state’s department of insurance and see if the doctors you are considering have had complaints filed against them.
• Go online. Search online for articles about the doctors you are considering.

3. Meet Your Doctor(s)

• Meet and greet. Once you’ve narrowed your list to a handful of doctors, set up an appointment so you can get to know the candidates. Bring a set of written questions you’d like to ask, and be prepared to discuss any concerns. Some offices charge a small fee for a meet and greet, but it will be well worth it.
• Make your choice. By now you should have a pretty good idea of your prime candidate. The choice will be clear cut or it may be difficult to choose. Either way, it’s important to remember that you do have a choice. Save your research, just in case you might consider switching doctors down the road. But, if you’ve done everything outlined here, chances are you’ve found the right doctor for you!