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Tips for Choosing a Doctor

Doctors may all have attended medical school, but someone had to graduate last in the class. Certainly, that's not the physician you'll want making vital decisions about your health. Whether you just graduated school, switched health insurance, moved to a new area or are simply fed up with inferior service, finding the professional who will provide top-notch care is made easier through research and careful decision making. Consider the following to guide you in your search.

1. Your Network
Know anyone in the area? Make use of your network! Give trusted friends, family, and colleagues a call to inquire about the doctors they utilize. Don't stop at a general recommendation. Ask them specific questions and listen carefully to their answers. What are the doctor's hours? Does the doctor have an impeccable bedside manner? How long is the wait for an appointment? Will you have read every magazine on the coffee table before they call you back? Is the support staff friendly and professional?

2. The Internet
The Web is a valuable resource. Check out RateMDs.com to see reviews from patients. The site lets your search by state and gives a general overview of patient satisfaction for quite a few physicians. Be sure to look carefully at the comments and make your own decision. One bad review out of many might be a fluke, but get worried if they're all negative. Also consider sample size. The higher the number of the reviews, the more likely they're legitimate. For more concrete information, check out healthgrade.com, which provides information on physician certification, education, and any disciplinary action.

3. Your Health Insurance
No matter how phenomenal a doctor may seem, it won't matter if you can't pay for the services. Examine your health coverage meticulously. Call your provider to ask if Dr. Right is covered under your policy. Many HMOs are strict about seeing providers who are in-network, so always verify that you're covered. If you're reluctant to stay on hold while your health insurance company searches for doctors, try the Internet again! Most insurance companies have websites that allow you to search for in-network doctors from the convenience of your personal computer.

4. Your Own Impressions
Don't be shy! You're a customer searching for someone to care for your most precious commodity, your health. You deserve some time and attention from your future doctor. Call the office, ask to meet with the doctor for 10 minutes, and form your own impressions. Observe the waiting room, the attitude of the staff, and of course the doctor. Ask about how he/she would handle an emergency. Inquire about the doctor's career and education. Decide whether you feel comfortable with the whole environment.

With thorough research, you'll be rewarded with a physician you can trust. The information you need to find an expert physician is out there, and by making use of your resources, you'll be able to find it.

Learn more about this author, L T Corda.
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