How to Find a Local Doctor or Physician
At some point in life, everyone needs a doctor. You even need a medical professional to bring you into this world. Finding a local doctor can sometimes be a challenge, however. Here are some tips to help you find a local doctor, based on your preferences and other factors.
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Instructions
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How to Find a Local Physician
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The number one way to find a local doctor is through word of mouth. It may be to your benefit to select a doctor who is referred to you by an existing patient, whom you know and trust. Several people who vouch for this doctor would be even more of a plus.
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Consult your local yellow pages. Look under the headings "Physicians," "Family Practice," "General Practice," or "Clinic." It's best to narrow the search down to the specific type of doctor you are looking for, such as "Gynecologist," "Podiatrist," "Cardiologist," "Chiropractor," "Obstetrician," or "Pediatrician."
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Look on the Internet for Board-certified physicians in your area. Type the name of your city, state and then certified doctors into a search engine. This will be a very broad search and you will need to narrow it down based on the results you obtain. Or check online physician directories. See the resources below for examples of online physician directories.
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Check with your local hospital for listings of licensed doctors, surgeons and specialists, who are approved to practice in the hospital.
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Once you have gone through all the steps above, you will have a list of doctors from which to choose. Narrow your selection to the one that best fits your needs. Drive by the office to get a first-hand look. Call the offices to find out if they accept your type of insurance and if they are accepting new patients. This may narrow your list considerably. Finally, consider your own feelings. The National Institutes of Health suggest asking yourself what your own preferences are. What is your gut instinct? Do you prefer to work with a male doctor or a female doctor? Do you prefer a solo practitioner or a physician in a group practice? Also think about where they are located and if it will be convenient to visit this doctor. Is he or she able and certified to be your physician in the hospital nearest you? If not, what will you do in the event of an emergency?
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Tips & Warnings
Things to assess in choosing a doctor include: education credentials, licensing, experience, recommendations, specialization (if any), location and accessibility, payment terms, reputation, and longevity in the area. Finally, it helps if you like the doctor. What is your initial impression of the doctor and his practice?
The state requires a license to practice medicine for a reason--to protect your health. Be diligent to ensure that your chosen health provider has all the required credentials to treat you properly. For example, many dentists do orthopedic work but they are not orthopedic surgeons. Many clinics offer practical nurses and physicians assistants, but they are not licensed doctors. Make sure the medical credentials fit your needs.
