How do I get proper guidance in finding a doctor?

To find the appropriate physician, you Must do your homework! Make sure the doctor is board certified in the specialty you are looking for.  Check hospital affiliations, and malpractice records. Check out their internet site, if applicable. Even if all checks out, make 2 if not 3 consultations and compare your notes and checklists. Ask the physician if you make speak to past patients for referrals. 

Perhaps the best place to seek guidance in finding a doctor is in one of the Castle Connolly guides (i.e. America’s Top Doctors) or its website, www.castleconnolly.com. Not only does each give detailed information on doctors nominated by their peers as being among the very best and carefully screened by the Castle Connolly physician-led research team, but there is a detailed narrative written there to guide consumers in finding the right doctor. 

Some things to consider when selecting a primary physician:

1. Ask your family and friends who they see, ask them what they like about the doctor, and why they chose that practice.
2. Is the physician a family doctor or an internist?  Simply explained, family doctors see children and adults (the whole family) while internists see only adult patients.
3. Confirm that they are board-certified in their specialty. Check for any other specialty certifications or recognitions.
4. Confirm what hospital they are affiliated with and would admit to, if you needed to be admitted as an in-patient.  Would they be seeing you in the hospital?
5. Find out available office hours and whether they have evening or weekend hours.  How easy will it be to get an appointment?
6. During off-hours, is their practice covered by them or by an outside physician? 
7. Call the practice and see how pleasant and professional their office staff is on the phone. 
8. Confirm that the practice accepts your health insurance.   

 

And finally, many physician practices offer a complimentary 'meet the doctor' visit for patients who are evaluating the practice.  Don't expect, however, to get treated or get medical advice at that visit.  Do expect to decide whether you like the doctor's bedside manner. 

The relationship you have with your primary doctor is important.  Take some time to make the right decision.