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 toward you? Or what happens when you move to another town or across the country? Six practical tips can help you switch to a new doctor with ease and confidence.
How to switch doctors
- Ask for recommendations
- Check the doctor's credentials
- Ask if the practice accepts new patients and your insurance
- Schedule a consultation
- Complete the required transfer papers at work
- Transfer your medical records
Trusted family members, friends, and neighbors can offer useful advice on which doctors take emergency appointments, which are good with children, and which have poor bedside manners.
To handle your specific medical needs, you deserve a specialist with appropriate training and accreditation. Verify licenses and board certifications before you choose a new doctor and consider reviewing related practice information at Doctors Medical Malpractice Insurance.
There’s no sense in getting your hopes up about seeing the perfect doctor if the practice is closed to new patients or doesn't accept your insurance. A quick call to the office will confirm these facts, and you can learn more about plan options at Control of Well (Insurance).
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.
Your human resources department or benefits administrator will have the essential paperwork you need to transfer doctors if your employer or plan changes. Complete these forms as soon as possible to finalize the switch; if you need help with coverage, consider contacting an insurance representative—ask an agent.
You will likely have to pay a fee to transfer medical records, especially if you're moving to a doctor outside your current network. Save money by asking whether only essential information can be transferred or whether you can carry your file personally to the new doctor.
You deserve medical care from a doctor who treats you with respect and whom you trust. When you’re ready to switch, these six steps will help you secure the care you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to transfer medical records?
Transfer times vary by provider and whether records are electronic or paper, but it commonly takes a few days to a few weeks.
Will my insurance cover a new doctor visit?
Coverage depends on your plan and whether the new doctor is in-network; contact your insurer or the doctor's office to confirm benefits before scheduling.
Do I need to tell my old doctor I'm switching?
It's courteous to notify your previous doctor and to request any necessary records, but you are not required to give a reason for changing providers.
Can I bring my own medical records to the new doctor?
Yes—if allowed by the new office, carrying your records or a summarized medical history can speed up the first visit and reduce transfer fees.