4 tips for finding the right doctor

The relationship you have with your primary care doctor is a significant one and can make a big difference for your overall well-being. In addition to diagnosing illnesses, doctors can advise about any tests and screenings you may need, refer you to specialists, prescribe medications, and help you make healthy lifestyle choices. It’s especially important to see a doctor regularly if you have a serious or long-term health condition. 

Choosing a doctor can seem like a daunting task, particularly if you have recently moved to a new area or changed insurance plans. Here are four tips to help you find the right doctor for you.

Make sure your doctor is in network. Most health insurance companies have in-network providers (doctors, pharmacies, and health care facilities) who offer discounted rates to plan members. Seeing an in-network physician will help you pay lower out-of-pocket fees and co-payments. Your insurance company will be able to provide a list of in-network doctors by phone, and you can also do an in-network provider search on their website.

Get a recommendation. Word-of-mouth recommendations are a great way to find a doctor. Ask your friends, family, and coworkers about their primary care physicians, and then call to see if the practice is both accepting new patients and whether the provider is in your network. If you are looking for a new doctor because you’re moving, you might want to ask your current doctor to refer you on. You could also try asking a local pharmacist or other medical professional if they have any suggestions for good primary care doctors. Lastly, there are online resources and review sites, such as Healthgrades, RateMD, and WebMD, where you can check out a doctor’s credentials, years of practice, and specialties, as well as find out how he or she is rated by patients. 

Focus on your specific needs. When doing your research, try to find the best doctor to specifically meet your medical and personal needs. For example, if you have children, zero in on finding a doctor who focuses on pediatrics. Or, if you are older, you might want to consider a primary care physician who practices geriatrics. Would you feel more comfortable with a male or female physician? Also, if English isn't your first language, you might want to try to find a practice with doctors who speak your language.

Location, location, location. It’s a good idea to think about whether your doctor’s office is easy to get to, whether you’re traveling via public transport or car. Remember that if you are feeling unwell, you won’t want to travel too far. Other things to think about when picking a new doctor: whether the practice offers extended opening hours, whether they can perform lab tests or take X-rays in-house, and whether the office staff is friendly and helpful.