When you're ill, you need a doctor you trust. But what if your doctor is unfamiliar with your condition, rarely has open appointments or acts rudely towards you? Or what happens when you move to another town or across the country? Six tips help you switch to a new doctor with ease and confidence.
- Ask for Recommendations
Trusted family members, friends and neighbors can offer advice on which doctors offer emergency appointments, which ones are great with kids and which ones have poor bedside manners.
- Check the Doctor's Credentials
To handle your specific medical needs, you deserve a specialist with the appropriate training and accreditation. Verify these credentials before you choose your new doctor.
- Ask if the Practice Accepts New Patients and Your Insurance
There's no sense in getting your hopes up about seeing the perfect doctor if he or she is closed to new patients or doesn't accept your insurance. A quick call to the office will confirm these facts.
- Schedule a Consultation
Before you go through the entire switching process, schedule a phone, email or in-person meeting with the doctor. That initial consultation gives you a feel for the doctor's bedside manner and competence.
- Complete the Required Transfer Papers at Work
Your human resources department will have the essential paperwork you need to transfer doctors successfully. Complete these forms as soon as possible to finalize the switch.
- Transfer Your Medical Records
You'll likely have to pay a fee for this service, especially if you're transferring records to a doctor outside of your current network. Save money by asking if only essential information can be transferred or if you can carry your file personally to the new doctor.
You deserve to receive medical treatment from a doctor who treats you right and is one whom you trust. When you're ready to switch doctors, follow six tips that ensure you obtain the medical treatment you need.