How to Check the Background of a Doctor

If you or a loved one undergoes a major medical procedure, such as surgery, it is always smart to make sure the physician and surgeon are board-certified and licensed. You may also want to know if he or she has been subject to any disciplinary actions. According to MDNationwide, an estimated 50 to 60 percent of physicians are sued at least once during their career. The more you know, the easier it will be to make the best decision for you or your loved one.

Things You'll Need

• Access to the Internet
• Doctor's information including first and last name, address and specialty

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Use an Internet service.
  Services such as MDNationwide will charge you for a full background report, but the information is often extensive. You can expect to read results on the doctor's training, education, awards, any malpractice history, licensure status and board-certificaton status.

• 2

  Contact the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), a non-profit organization comprising 24 medical specialty boards.

• 3

  Contact the state medical board.
  Most state medical boards offer limited information on doctors, so you may wish to do further research.