6 Surefire Ways to Find the Right Doctor For You

1. Ask Friends & Family for Referrals

If you’re looking for a new doctor, asking friends and family for referrals is a great place to start. Ask your loved ones about their experiences with various doctors—what did they like about them and what didn’t they like? Gathering information from people who have had similar experiences can help you find a doctor that fits your personality and needs. Don’t hesitate to ask around. The number of people willing to help might just surprise you.

Researching Reputation

When selecting a doctor, while you want a knowledgeable and experienced physician, you also want someone you can trust. And that’s where reputation comes in. A doctor’s reputation is based on the opinions of other people—their patients, their peers and the medical community at large. If a doctor has a good reputation, it reflects well on their competence, ethics and how they care for their patients. Additionally, well-respected doctors often assume a greater role at the forefront of new medical advances and are more likely to offer cutting-edge treatments. So when you choose a new physician, you may want to consider reputation in your search. 

It is important to consider that doctors with a good reputation are often in high demand. The more desirable a physician is, there may be availability to schedule an appointment. Additionally, the physician may spend less time with each patient to fit in more people. This is a trade-off you may have to weigh. 

Considering Cost

When you look for a new medical provider, consider the cost beyond just the price of an individual visit or procedure. To start, think about whether you need a provider who takes your insurance. If you come across a provider that seems promising, consider whether they are in-network or out-of-network for your insurance. If you’re on a plan with a narrow network, you may have little choice in which physician you can choose due to financial limitations. You can also look for providers who offer discounts for cash payments or who offer sliding scale fees based on income. 

Location, Location, Location

Most people don’t give much thought to the location of their medical provider, but it’s actually a highly important factor. Depending on whether you are seeking a doctor for a problem that requires multiple visits or just a one-time visit, you may want to consider whether the location makes sense for you.

There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing your medical care. It’s all about what works best for you and your needs. 

Experience Treating a Condition Like Yours

If you’re dealing with a health issue, it’s important to find a doctor who has experience treating that particular condition. You want to ensure your doctor is up to date on the latest treatments and has a good success rate with patients who have a similar condition to yours. 

Don’t hesitate to ask around or do some research online to find a doctor who you feel comfortable with and who has the experience you’re looking for. It could make all the difference in your treatment and recovery.

5. Make Sure You Feel Comfortable with the Doctor & their Staff

When you’re looking for a new doctor, find someone you’re comfortable with. After all, you will share personal information with them and rely on them for medical advice. So how can you tell if a doctor is right for you? 

You can get a feel for their bedside manner by scheduling a short appointment, such as a physical or a consultation. This will give you a chance to see how they interact with patients and whether they take the time to answer your questions. Talk to the doctor about your health history and any concerns you might have, and pay attention to how you feel when you’re in the office. 

Do the staff make you feel welcome and comfortable? Do they answer your questions patiently and thoroughly? This is important to consider. If you aren’t comfortable, don’t hesitate to keep looking for someone else.