Finding a Doctor: Tips and Tricks

Whether you just switched insurance companies, moved to a new area, or just looking for another primary physician, finding a doctor is a daunting task. Luckily, our movers in Fort Lauderdale know all too well on how this can be difficult and share some tips so you know how to find the right doctor.

Check with Insurance Company

First, check the list of in-network providers affiliated with your insurance company. Otherwise you’d be paying premium medical costs by choosing an out-of-network doctor. Whether you have insurance through an employer or your own private insurance, it best to know which medical professionals will accept it before you make the appointment. Keep in mind, however, that some doctors will only accept specific plans from certain insurance companies, not all of them, so make sure to ask the office staff if your specific plan is accepted.

Determine Specialty

A general practitioner is a primary doctor that covers your overall health. Most of the time a general practitioner doesn’t treat speciality ailments but can refer you to someone with more specifc, advanced training. When you are trying to find a doctor that is right for you, make sure you know what “speciality” doctor you are looking for. If you have a child, you will need to see a pediatrician; if you have any issues related to your ears, nose, and throat, you need to see an Otolaryngologist, also known as an ENT for short. If you’re not sure how to find the right doctor, it’s a good idea to start with your primary care physician (PCP) as they can refer you to the appropriate specialist. Depending on your insurance plan, you may need a referral from PCP in order to see the specialist for your ailment.

Read the Reviews & Testimonials – Ask a Nurse!

Your health is extremely important. When you are searching for a good doctor, like everything else these days, read all the reviews and testimonials about this doctor. This is a good way to know how the doctor treats his patients, not just medically, but his bedside manner as well. Each doctor is different in how they treat their patients and how they take their problems and concerns into consideration. When you are reading the reviews, keep in mind that many people like to talk about the negative aspects most of the time. Sift through the comments, keep an open mind, and take everything that’s written with a grain of salt. Doctors in the past have hired PR agencies to boost good reviews so be very careful about what you are reading. If you really want to know how to find the right doctor, the nurses in the medical facility where the doctor primarily treats patients are a great resource. They will most likely give you the most honest opinion about a doctor because they have witnessed the doctor interact with multiple patients, whereas a review from a patient only shows one perspective.

Prepare Questions Ahead of Time

Once you have made an appointment with a doctor, prepare a list of questions you have, whether it be about the doctor’s background and experience or specifically about your condition, or any other medical questions you have. One of the most important variables to consider as you search for the right doctor is whether they are up to date with current medical practices and procedures. Some doctors prefer an old school method rather than modern ones, though that’s not always necessarily a bad thing. Listen to your doctor’s reasoning concerning the various treatment methods for your condition. Ultimately the decision is yours, but make sure you have the information necessary so you can make an informed decision.

Trust What You Feel

At the end of the day, the you have to listen to the person who knows you better than anyone else – and that person is you. On paper, the doctor could have the best credentials, but if you are uncomfortable or something doesn’t feel right to you, look for another doctor. A PCP should be a person you can trust will consider what’s best for you as an individual when you are vulnerable, namely when you are sick or hurt. Trust your intuition. Our local Fort Lauderdale movers understand that your health is vital, and you need the right doctor you can trust to take care of your medical needs.