There are a number of reasons why you might want to check up on your physician to learn more about her credentials, where she went to school and did her residency and if she has any complaints on file. Learn how to find information about your physician if you are going in for a major procedure, if you doubt the advice you've been given or if you are looking for a new doctor.
Step 1
Purchase a complete record of your doctor from one of the online resources that provides information on more than 650,000 doctors nationwide. Organizations such as HealthGrades charges about $15 for a full report on your physician, including years in practice, disciplinary actions and average price for services.
Step 2
Go to the American Medical Association (AMA) website or call your local office to find out if your physician is a member of the organization that keeps doctors apprised of medical breakthroughs and changes in the healthcare industry. The AMA can tell you if your doctor's license is in good order as well as if there are any complaints lodged with the group. The AMA keeps records on more than 800,000 U.S. physicians and provides limited information for free to non-AMA members.
Step 3
Check with your state licensing board to make sure your doctor is in good stead with the licensing board. Contact information for state licensing boards is available through your state's medical associations.
Step 4
Talk to other patients. While certifications, degrees and years in service count for something, there are aspects of your physician that only other patients can tell you, such as how well he listens to his patients, how long patients are kept waiting in the waiting room and how much time he spends with patients at each appointment.
Tips and Warnings
- Ask your doctor if you have any concerns about her background or experience. Ask for references.
Things You'll Need
- Physician report
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