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There are a number of reasons why you might need a doctor; the doctor moves or retires, you move, the doctor takes a sabbatical, etc. When faced with finding a new doctor, especially after losing one you've known for a long time, it may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Following these tips should help you find someone fast.

(1) Contact your health care provider for a list of physicians in your area covered by your insurance.

(2) If it is a simple matter of your doctor leaving or retiring, give his/her replacement a chance. You might be surprised at how much you like them.

(3) Do a quality care check. A doctor needs to have: privileges at your hospital, talks about preventative care, is licensed to treat medical needs, is licensed by the state, and is respectful. Also, check with the American Medical Association to ensure the doctor is licensed to practice in your state.

(4) Contact your hospital, and ask for physicians with privileges there. It will save you a little time if you can weed out the doctors without associations there.

(5) Sit down and make a list of everything you want in a doctor. Do you prefer a male or female? Would you like a doctor with more experience? Do you need to see a local doctor? The more you know what you want in a doctor, the easier it will be to find one.

(6) Look for physician referral systems in your area. Some cities have local numbers you can call for help about finding a doctor. They will ask questions to determine what you need, and give you a list of doctors who meet those requirements.

(7) Ask friends and family for referrals. If your best friend has a doctor they love, consider giving him a try.

(8) Think about seeing a different doctor in the same complex. In some cases you may have already seen one, when they were filling in for your regular doctor.

(9) Ask questions of potential doctors and doctors' offices. A quick flip through the Yellow Pages will reveal numerous possibilities. Make a list of the doctors you are most interested in, and call the offices. You should be able to find a nurse or receptionist willing to take a few minutes to answer your questions. If they can't take the time, then call someone else. An office that doesn't have time for a potential patient, doesn't have time for real patients. Make sure that when you call, you double check that they take your insurance, and that they are taking new patients. Some physicians limit the amount of patients under certain insurance plans, and others already have too many patients. Also ask about the waiting time to see the doctor; if it takes 4-5 days for a stomach flu, it might be worthwhile to look at someone else.

(10) Experiment with different doctors, if possible. Schedule an appointment with your top choice and use that time to get a feel for the doctor. If you don't feel comfortable, or don't like the doctor, keep looking.

By using these 10 tips, you should be well on your way to finding a doctor in your area.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
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