In This Article:
Types of Doctor
Finding A New Doctor
When Your Doctor Is No Longer Available
Things To Consider When Choosing A Doctor
Learning More About the New Doctor
Making A Good Choice
First Visit to Your New Doctor
For your primary care doctor, you might want a general or family practitioner, an internist, or a geriatrician
Once you have a sense of what kind of doctor you need, ask people you know about doctors they use and like:
A doctor whose name comes up often might be a good one to try. It may help to have several names to choose from in case the doctor you select is not taking new patients or does not take part in your health insurance plan. If you need more help finding names of doctors, contact a local hospital or medical center, medical society, physician referral service, or nearby medical schools.
If you belong to a managed care plan, you can get a list of doctors from the plan’s membership services office. Keep in mind that our choices will be limited to the doctors who are part of the plan.
When Your Doctor Stops Seeing Patients
Often when a doctor leaves a medical practice, he or she can arrange for you to see another doctor who will have access to all your medical records. You should go for an office visit with the new doctor before deciding if you want him or her to be your physician.
Well trained and capable. A doctor who takes the time to know you well may be able to help you prevent some health problems and manage problems that do come up.
Once you have chosen two or three doctors, call their offices and talk to one of the office staff to get information about the doctor’s education and training. You can say:
“Before I make an appointment, I have some questions about the office and the practice. Can I speak to an office manager or a nurse?”
The office manager or nurse can tell you about:
How Do You Make a Good Choice?
Find out as much as you can about the doctor and the practice. Here are more questions you may want to ask the office staff:
Before your visit:
After choosing a doctor, make your first medical appointment. Before going to the doctor’s office, write down any questions you may have. It’s a good idea to bring a list of your medicines. Include both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, even vitamins, supplements, and eye drops. The nurse is often the first person you’ll talk to in the office. The nurse usually takes your blood pressure and asks about your medications. If you’re having a problem with a medicine, the nurse will explain how to take it.
During your visit:
During your first visit, the doctor will probably take a medical history and ask questions about your health and the medical history of people in your family. The doctor will examine you. If you go to a new doctor, be sure to bring your past medical records or have them sent. Your former doctor may charge you for this service. Make a list of any drug allergies or serious drug reactions you’ve had.
During this visit take time to ask any questions you may still have about the doctor and the practice. It will be helpful to ask the doctor the following:
After the visit :
After the meeting, ask yourself if you felt comfortable and confident with this doctor.
Once you have found a doctor you like, your job is not finished. A good doctor-patient relationship is a partnership. Both you and your doctor need to work together to solve your medical problems and maintain your good health. Finding a doctor that suits your needs is an important first step. Good communication with the doctor and the office staff is key.
Updated: May 20, 2019
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Catharine “Kate” is a Certified Administrator for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) and an Expert Senior Care Advisor. Kate’s grandmother battled Alzheimer’s Disease and Kate personally understands what millions of families are going through. Kate and her team are very passionate in empowering Seniors and their families by providing them with the Best Available Senior Care Options based on Senior’s care needs, preferred location and family’s budget.
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