How to Find the Right Doctor

Now not every doctor out there can be Doctor House, and not every patient would find his personality endearing. Picking the right physician for yourself or your child is a very personal decision, but here are just a few tips to make it easier.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A little leg work
• Your library or computer

1. Hospital Staff @ www/akasaka-ah.com The best place to start is at your local hospital, or by talking to competent medical professionals in your area. Friends and family, unless they are trained medical professionals may not know the most qualified physician to provide for your needs. On the other hand, doctors come in contact with hospital staff daily, and their recommendations would be well worth considering. The county medical society would be another source of reference.
2. Now that you have compiled a list, it is time to check qualifications. Which ones will your medical insurance participate with?
3. Bedside Manner from lost.about.com Where have they spent their residency training? Those who spend time training at a larger facility come into contact with a larger range of cases and more hands on experience. If they also hold a faculty position at a medical board that is even better.
4. Are they board certified? library.med.nyu.edu Is the physician "board eligible", or did he or she complete their approved residency without passing the test? For an internist or family physician the choice should be a board-certified. If you have a particular health problem you may also be concerned with a subspecialty related to your particular problem. This information can be obtained from your local library.

Tips & Warnings

• Doctor complaints can be researched at www.HealthGrades.com or www.physicianreports.com
• You may want to review these before deciding.
• Look into hospital and professional affilliations
• Meet the doctor first, if at possible to see if you get any vibes.
• Once you and your new doctor have decided to make the change, forward your medical records.
• You aren't looking for a new best friend, so don't judge appearance or personality too harshly.
• Realize the information that you have so carefully researched may not be up to date.