How to Find a Reputable Physician

Whether you've just moved to a new town, changed insurance, or had your old doctor retire, finding a reputable physician can be a challenge. This is true whether you live in a large city with thousands of doctors to choose from or a small town with only one choice.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask around. Coworkers can often be a source of information on good doctors who are covered by your employer's health plan. Friends can also provide good leads on reputable physicians. If someone you trust raves about a physician, he is likely to treat you well.

• 2

  Go online. Websites such as ZocDoc and RateMDs.com will have listings of doctors in your area. Many of these doctors will have user-submitted reviews under their names. Real patients submit reviews of doctors to these sites, and if a number of people have had a good experience with a doctor, she is likely to be reputable.

• 3

  Call the offices of prospective doctors to see how you're treated. Does the receptionist pick up the phone in a timely manner? Is she rude or abrupt? Are you placed on hold for an extended period of time? If the receptionist is unfriendly or too busy to either answer your questions or route you to someone in the practice who can, the doctor is likely to display similar traits.

• 4

  Visit your new doctor to see how you feel around him. Does he take the time to listen to your concerns? Does he explain why he is ordering certain tests or prescribing certain medications? If your doctor seems knowledgeable and puts you at ease with his bedside manner, all your research has paid off. If not, try again! You deserve a doctor who takes the time to see you properly.