Going to see your doctor is often stressful because of illness, conflicting work schedules or cost. Having to find a new physician can add to that stress. Taking the time to define your needs, such as location, specialty or language will simplify the process and minimize both the time and effort it will take to locate a doctor.
Step 1
Ask your current physician for a referral. It is likely that there is an established relationship between you and your physician, therefore, a recommendation is worthy of consideration. Even if you are moving to a new city, your doctor may know someone within his or her network who can help with placement. If you are searching for a new doctor because you dislike or do not trust your current physician, skip this option.
Step 2
Involve your friends and trusted colleagues. They may be willing to recommend their current doctors to you. Based on your relationship, you probably value your friends' opinions and trust their input.
Step 3
Contact your insurance carrier. The insurance company has a list of physicians and specialists who have agreements to work within its requirements. Some insurance carriers may have requirements that you see a physician within their network for claim reimbursement. These lists are often by location and specialty to help narrow the search.
Step 4
Contact the local hospital to see if it has any board-certified physicians with admitting privileges. A board-certified physician is a doctor who has achieved membership with a professional organization through additional certification and experience. A medical doctor may become a member of the American College of Physicians, or a surgeon might become a member of the American College of Surgeons. A hospital may offer admitting privileges to a doctor who has demonstrated the training, certification and experience with his specialty that meets the hospital's standard of care. The U.S. Department of Health has a website that will help you find and compare hospitals within your area.
Step 5
Access the Internet, as there are a number of public sites providing information and resources for narrowing your search. The Medical Library Association provides a number of links and resources to help with your search. The American Medical Association lists boards by state and has links to lists of members who have successfully completed the requirements for licensing.
Step 6
Schedule an appointment to meet the doctor and the staff. Most will charge for an office visit so you may not have a chance to meet until your actual examination appointment. The doctor's staff will be able to tell you if the doctor is board certified, how long they have been practicing medicine and where they have admitting privileges. Even if the physician has the right credentials, ask questions related to the procedure or care you are seeking.
Tips and Warnings
- Internet sources should be non-profit organizations especially those involved in patient advocacy. Well-known specialty groups such as the Arthritis Foundation, the American Cancer Society or groups dedicated to your particular ailment can be helpful resources.
