by Dr. Colette

Created on: March 20, 2008

Tips for Choosing a doctor?

Decision *
There are many important things to take into consideration when choosing a doctor.
In my experience it is very important to have a doctor with the qualities that matter most to you. Your evaluation should include the type of doctor you need for any given specific issue. Some examples to think about may be: a general practitioner who can usually help or at least refer you to a specialist if needed or an Alternative Medicine doctor if you decide that Natural Medicine is right for you.

Education *
It is always wise to take the credentials of any doctor into consideration. One good way to confirm this is by choosing a doctor through a hospital referral service. The referral service can usually provide the background of the doctor, which schools they've graduated from, and how many years they have been in practice. I always choose this method when in search of a local Allopathic doctor.

Attentiveness *
Another aspect that may be of concern to you is if you have a doctor's appointment and having to wait two hours or more. If this is something that happens frequently, and doesn't set well with your personal needs, you may want to re-evaluate or look into other options. It is essential that you feel like more than just a number.

Trust *
The first thing one should look for no matter what type of doctor you are seeking is the initial vibe of the doctor. Does he or she seem to be someone you are comfortable with when meeting them for the first time? Did you feel hurried as if there wasn't enough time for you or that the doctor did not appear very concerned or preoccupied? It is important that you have a doctor that you feel you can totally trust who takes personal interest in you and your health from the start. If possible, a good referral from a trusted friend or family member is another possible step in the right direction.

Details *
You want to choose a doctor who is thorough in assessment and examination as well as treatment. They also should be open to answer any questions you may have involving your health and/or method of possible treatment. If treatment is required, then the doctor should share with you his recommended treatment, the outcome, and all that is involved, and that you have a clear understanding of his determination, and most importantly allow you to play a role in the decision making process.

Communication is just as important because you want someone who will listen to your needs and understand what they are. I've had experience in the past where the doctor wasn't interested in my needs, just what medications he could push to me for new experiments. Also I've had communication problems with people who aren't very fluent in English, which is most important. So that there aren't any miscommunications, it is vital that you have someone who can comprehend and speak your native language. You want to choose a doctor who will understand your history. If a doctor doesn't understand your history, it is possible that they may treat you improperly.

Many doctors work long hours, so it is important to know up front their availability. Some doctors are booked for up to one month, so if it is imperative that you have immediate needs on a regular basis or you think you may, it is important to take into consideration the attention you need.
A Friendly Staff is important because there's nothing more upsetting than visiting a doctor's office and finding that the staff isn't very pleasant and inviting, especially when you aren't feeling your best.
In my experience I've found that the staff is a direct reflection on the doctor and the quality of service you receive.

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