Choosing Your Primary Care Physician
According to a recent survey, most people spend more time selecting a car, home or major appliance than they do choosing a health-care provider. It's little wonder, given the lack of objective criteria available to use in evaluating physicians. As today's health care climate continues to change, however, the choice of a primary-care physician becomes more and more important. Where do you begin?
Personal references are preferred
When choosing a physician for general health needs, from minor emergencies to regular check ups and preventive care, look for a primary-care doctor who is a family practitioner or a specialist in general or internal medicine. Many people locate a doctor by asking family, friends, co-workers or neighbors for recommendations. People also choose a doctor based on the services offered by the physician's practice.
Experience, accessibility are important influences
When checking credentials, remember to ask if the doctor has a degree from an accredited medical school and is board-certified. Board certification indicates that a physician meets rigorous standards of education and experience and has passed a series of comprehensive examinations in his specialty.
In addition, you should examine the physicians' s affiliation with a hospital. A doctor affiliated with an academic medical center is often able to stay abreast of the most up-to-date medical treatments and technology that can benefit his patients.
After you have reviewed professional credentials, you should weigh additional factors. High on the list of considerations should be the physician's accessibility. Ask if the doctor has evening or weekend hours, and find out how far in advance an appointment must be made for a routine office visit.
Take the time to find
a doctor who is attentive
to your individual needs.
Finding a good fit may take time
You should also ask the doctor's current patients about his interpersonal skills. Take the time to find a doctor who is attentive to your individual needs. A doctor should be able to make you understand your medical condition or treatment at a level that is comfortable for you.
That feeling of familiarity with a primary-care doctor should strengthen with time. Your doctor will most likely come to know your family members and their health history as well. Such information usually proves beneficial when it comes to treating illness and injuries.
For more information, call Allegheny General Hospital's Physician Access Service toll-free at 1-877-284-2000
