How to Pick an Endocrinologist

An endocrinologist specializes in the body’s endocrine system, the system responsible for producing hormones. Hormones control everything from metabolism to reproduction. Diseases that disrupt the endocrine system negatively shape a patient’s quality of life. The right endocrinologist will support each patient’s unique medical needs. An endocrinologist should also possess the skills and knowledge necessary to provide proper care.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet connection

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Instructions

• 1

  Decide what type of endocrinologist you need. Some endocrinologists are generalists. Others may specialize in conditions such as infertility, diabetes, obesity and thyroid disease.

• 2

  Compile a list of endocrinologists. If you belong to a diabetes or infertility support group, ask others in the group to recommend a good endocrinologist. Also, check with your primary care physician, local hospital, friends and relatives.

• 3

  Interview potential endocrinologists, if possible. Talking with a potential endocrinologist helps patients determine if their personalities are a right fit. You can get a sense of the physician’s personality, bedside manner and dedication to his patients. The physician may require you to set up an appointment.

• 4

  Check the endocrinologist’s certification. Board certification is voluntary for endocrinologists. The certification, however, shows that the endocrinologists have at least three years of internal medicine and endocrinology training, according to the American Board of Medical Specialties. Participants who seek board certification must also take a written test that proves their expertise.

• 5

  Look into patient satisfaction. Ask friends and family for endocrinologist reviews. You can also seek assistance on online directories that feature patient reviews.

• 6

  Review insurance policies. Find out what type of insurance the physician takes. This will be a good time to check with your insurance about copays, coverage, deductibles and allowed number of visits.

• 7

  Ask about the amount time spent with patients. The more time your endocrinologist spends with you, the better quality care you will receive. Face-to-face patient time longer than 18 minutes benefits patients, according to David C. Dugdale M.D. and his colleagues in the Journal of General Internal Medical article titled “Time and the Patient-Physician Relationship.”

• 8

  Look for endocrinologists with hours that fit your schedule. If you have a unique schedule, seek a doctor who has flexible hours or weekend hours. Also, ask staff about after-hours availability, in case of an emergency.