How to Find a Doctor You Can Trust
By Genevieve Cunningham
Whether you’re finding a new doctor because of a change in health, a change in insurance, or just personal preference, the process can be long and hard. There are so many to choose from, and they all bring something unique to the table. Some are great with bedside manners, others have advanced degrees, and yet another is more suitable to your hours. So how can you be sure that you’re finding the perfect care for yourself? Take a look at these tips for finding the perfect doctor to fit your needs and get your health moving in a better direction.
Read Reviews Online
In today’s online world, reviews are abundant. There are reviews about restaurants, stores, clothing, and yes, even doctors. Before you decide to see a doctor, read their reviews online. You might get good feedback regarding wait and response time, friendliness or lack thereof, as well as patient care. Any doctor with multiple poor reviews, you may want to skip, but do be mindful of fake reviews.
Ask Plenty of Questions
This might include asking around for referrals (which is a great place to start!), or it might include asking your doctor plenty of questions at the first visit. Ask about their policy about care, cost, and patient confidentiality. Ask any questions regarding an area that you feel strongly about. Ask, and then weigh their response. If they’re annoyed at your inquisitions, maybe you should keep looking. If they answer and explain everything to you, and you’re in agreement with most of their policy, you may have found the right doctor for you.
Shop Around Before Settling
Keep in mind that you don’t have to take and keep the first doctor that you visit. If it doesn’t feel right, just keep looking. Just like different people have different connections with each individual, different doctors will have different relationships with you as well. Find a doctor who works with your personality and beliefs, and go from there.
Sometimes it feels like finding a doctor is incredibly hard work. And sometimes, it really is! But if you know what to look for and what to avoid, it can make the process a little easier. Use these tips to find a doctor who works for you, and you’ll be halfway there on your road to better health.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Marcos, Calif.