Choosing a Doctor

The key to choosing a doctor is good research. Make sure that you have as much information as possible before selecting your doctor. The more you know about a doctor, the better the chances are that you will choose one that meets your health care needs.

Some things to consider:

• Education and Training –
• Where did the provider train?
• When looking at educational background, you may want to consider the medical school attended and where the provider completed his or her residency.
• How long has he or she been practicing?
• Does the provider have an area of expertise?
• Does the provider belong to any professional organizations?
• Certification –
• Make sure that the provider is licensed.
• Is the provider board-certified?
• You also may want to check to see if any complaints have been filed against the provider and/or whether he or she has had any disciplinary actions.
• Hospital Affiliations – Some providers have privileges to admit to certain hospitals. You may want to ask the provider where he or she may admit patients.
• Office Policies – The policies for a provider’s office may be important in making a decision about your doctor.
• How long does it typically take to get an appointment?
• How are payments handled?
• Is the office staff friendly and well-trained?
• Is there enough staff?
• Access to Care –
• What type of access to care does the provider provide?
• Does he or she belong to a group practice where you may access other providers in the group?
• Is he or she a sole practitioner?
• How does the office handle emergency care and weekend appointments?
• Confidentiality –
• How does the provider handle confidentiality?
• Are your medical discussions done in private?
• Is the outer office sensitive to patients’ confidential concerns?

 

Recommendations Are a Good Source of Information

Sometimes the best sources of information come from family, friends, and co-workers. Another good source is the medical community in your area. If you know someone in the medical field, he or she might be able to recommend a provider to you.

Call or Visit the Doctor’s Office

Try calling the provider’s office to set up a telephone interview or talk to the office staff. You can also try to meet with the provider in person. Providers are often willing to set up an initial visit with new or prospective patients. You’ll be able to use first-hand knowledge to decide if that doctor is right for you.

Make a Personal Connection

• Do you and your doctor “click”?
• Your doctor will manage all your health care needs. You will need to feel comfortable with him or her. How are you treated?
• Do you prefer a male or female doctor?
• Do you like the provider’s “style?”
• Is the provider “tough and straightforward” or more gentle and nurturing? Which do you prefer?
• Do you feel that you can speak openly and honestly about your health concerns?

Other Resources

Additional resources that are available to help you choose your doctor include:

• American Medical Association (AMA) – Provides an online service that you can use to research providers. The Web site address is www.ama-assn.org. You can write to them to get up to five provider profiles. Profiles include information such as education, board certifications, and disciplinary actions. They cost $60 each. Call the AMA at (312) 464-5199 for more information.
• Monroe County Medical Society – Offers assistance in choosing your DOCTOR. Please call the Society at (585) 473-7573 for additional information.
• New York State Department of Education Office of the Professions – Lets you search its Web site for provider licensing information. It also gives you general information on requirements for licenses. Visit their Web site at www.op.nysed.gov/medb.htm or contact the office at (518) 474-3817.
• New York State Department of Health – Lets you search its Web site for information on misconduct and provider discipline from 1992 to the present. The Web site address is www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/opmc/main.htm or contact the department at (800) 663-6114.
• Preferred Care Member Services – Gives you information on providers and can help you choose your doctor. Give us a call at (585) 325-3113 or toll free at (800) 950-3224. You also can visit the Find a Doctor section of the Preferred Care Web site.