How to Find an ENT Physician

An ENT physician specializes in diseases of the ear, nose and throat (thus the abbreviation ENT). Known in clinical terms as an otolaryngologist, they treat problems of the vocal chords, sinuses, ear infections, asthma, allergies, snoring, thyroid abnormalities and other maladies effecting the ears, nose or throat.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Determine your exact needs. If you're in pain need to see a doctor immediately, then location may be the most important factor. A check-up or treatment for an ongoing problem leaves you more time to consider other factors like insurance, the physician's medical background and cost.
2. Browse your insurance listings. Grab the oversized book you got from your health insurance company and leaf through it. Consider location, hours and doctor's background before settling on a choice, then ask questions when contacting the office for the first time.
3. Check the phone book. If convenience is your primary concern and you don't need to check the doctor's background extensively, this is probably the best way to find an ENT physician.
   
4. Surf the Net. "Find a physician" sites on the Net give you plenty of information right at your fingertips. The doctor's education, hospital affiliations and hours are all there on the Web for you to check out.
5. Ask for referrals. The best way to get a good ENT is to ask friends and relatives. They can tell you about the physician's fees, personality, office staff and other details you can't find in a listing.