Finding a primary care doctor you can trust is crucial. You want your doctor to be knowledgeable and professional, but you also want to feel comfortable discussing often intimate details of your health. In some cases, your current doctor may not be up to par. If so, Everyday Health offers the following tips on how to determine whether your doctor is sufficiently meeting your needs.
Second opinions are essential to patients. If your doctor discourages you from getting another opinion on a condition or illness, take it as a huge red flag. While it may not be feasible during an emergency situation, a good doctor will want a patient to feel at ease, which sometimes involves getting another medical professional’s opinion. Looking down on second opinions could be a matter of hubris, which is sure to impact the quality of the care you receive.
Your doctor may also talk down to you or fail to explain diagnoses and treatments effectively. You should leave an appointment with a clear understanding of your medical issue and the steps you’re taking to treat it. Not only does this allow you to play a proactive role in your medical care, it also provides peace of mind. A doctor that rushes a patient out of an appointment or doesn’t answer questions adequately is putting your health on the line.
So, how should you go about looking for a new doctor? Try asking friends and family for their recommendations. While online review sites can be useful in some cases, it’s best to take this information with a grain of salt. You can also look at the doctor’s website to read more on his or her specialties or areas of focus. Before your first appointment, schedule a preliminary visit to ask questions and get a feel for the doctor’s treatment style.
