How do I Check History on Doctors?

Because physicians undergo years of training and hard work before they can practice, patients often assume they are trustworthy. But occasionally, the doctor has a history of disciplinary action or lawsuits. Make sure your physician is trusted by patients, colleagues and regulatory agencies before putting too much faith in him or her.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet access
• Telephone

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Instructions

State, federal and other sources of information

• 1

  Start by calling your state's medical board. The boards, which are usually composed of other doctors, will have a list of any disciplinary action taken against a physician. They also have information about the physician's education and professional memberships. One caveat: Just because your physician doesn't have a record of any problems in one state doesn't mean that she has not been in trouble in another state. Ask the board how long the physician has practiced in your state, and see if they know where else she has practiced. Some states provide online records you can search for information about doctors.

• 2

  Ask questions. If you need a particular kind of surgery, check whether the physician is a member of that professional group. An obstetrical surgeon, for example, will likely be a member of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Ask how many surgeries the physician has done, and be sure you're aware of complication rates for the surgery in question.

• 3

  Go to your local courthouse and ask the court clerk for copies of any lawsuits filed against the physician. Be aware that a physician who practices a high-risk specialty, such as oncology or cardiology, is more likely to have lawsuits filed against him than a general practitioner. Look for red flags, such as a large number of lawsuits over a short period of time. You might also check the nearest federal court for records of lawsuits against the physician.

• 4

  Check federal records. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration keeps records on physicians who have been arrested or prosecuted for drug-related crimes.

• 5

  Use an online search tool to make sure you have not missed anything. A few sites, such as DocFinder, will provide a full report on a physician for a small amount of money. The amount charged is usually less than an office visit insurance co-payment, and it will always be less than you would pay if there is a problem.