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Choosing a doctor is something that we all encounter at one point or another. This is going to be a person who gets to know you inside and out (medically). It is important that you make the right choice for you and your family. Here are some tips to help guide you in choosing the physician that is right for you.

First and foremost compile a list of doctors in your area which accept your insurance. Contact the doctors' offices to determine who is accepting new patients into their practice, And narrow your list from there.

Once you have your list, make a general consultation appointment, to simply meet the doctor(s). Make sure the office understands you are not coming in for an exam at this point. If they are a good doctor with a good practice, they will make time to meet you. At this consultation you can ask about the doctors credentials, education, practice and experience. Don't worry, the doctors will be delighted to brag about themselves to you, and they will be glad to see someone who is taking the time to ask those questions for their own well-being. But this will give you the opportunity to evaluate the doctors personality, and how they approach the medical profession.

While you are there notice your surroundings, ask yourself these questions:
Is the office clean and inviting?
Is there a small center for children to play/read in the lobby?
Is the personnel cheerful and friendly?
How is the office staffed, with one or two people, or more? (this will imply weather the office runs efficiently and will ensure promptness upon appointments).
Is the staff and doctor willing to answer your questions?
Did you have to wait long to be seen by the doctor?
Ask how many patients the office has.
Find out if there is another location for this practice, and what days it operates.
Ask the doctor about your general medical concerns and if he covers them in his/her practice?
Ask if he dose referrals?

The answers to those questions will help you to decide if a particular doctor is right for you.

Another tip is, find out if the doctor has any reserves about recommending you to a second opinion. If your doctor is insulted when you mention a second opinion, he/she is ego driven and may not be the right doctor for you, and could very potentially be wrong in a diagnosis.

Choosing a doctor can be a lengthy process. However you and your family are worth the time to choose a physician who is right for you. This doctor is going to be trusted with your medical well-being. You owe it to yourself to make the right choice for YOU!

I sincerely hope these tips help you find the right doctor.

Learn more about this author, Emily Daugherty.
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