What to Consider When Choosing a Healthcare Provider

So you need to choose a healthcare provider. Perhaps you’ve recently moved into a new neighborhood. Or, you’re not happy with your current practitioner. Maybe you’re just seeking a second opinion.

In any of these scenarios, it’s important to be able to trust your decision when choosing your new doctor. This is the person you will be entrusting with your health and well-being. What could be more important?

Here are our top three questions to ask when choosing a new healthcare provider.

Question 1. Are they Formally Licensed and Qualified?

First, what formal qualifications do they have? If they’re a doctor, you’ll want to know that they’ve obtained the relevant degree in medicine – one that qualifies them to practice professionally. For a family nurse practitioner, an online fnp program will provide them with the accreditation they need to practice as a licensed nurse.

Having obtained these credentials will usually also indicate that the medical practitioner in question has completed their mandatory rounds of clinical placements – which means they have obtained hands-on, real-world medical experience. You’ll want to know that they have this type of experience if you’re going to trust their medical advice.

Question 2. Do I Trust Their Medical Advice?

Trusting your medical professional. It’s essential. The importance of building trust in the physician-patient relationship is paramount. Why? You need to know you can rely on your medical professional’s expertise and guidance when it comes to your health.

You also want to feel that they’re making ethical decisions when it comes to your treatment and care. You want to know that they’re making the best possible decisions and acting in your best interest. Of course, you also need to advocate for yourself. But ultimately, you need to be able to trust your doctor’s word and to know they are doing right by you as their patient.

Question 3. What’s Their Professional Reputation?

Word of mouth speaks volumes when it comes to service industries like medicine. Take it upon yourself to read reviews, and speak to other patients. What they say about the doctor can help you choose if they are the right medical practitioner for you.

For example, the doctor in question may have consistently high ratings – which could indicate that they provide a good quality service. On the flip side, negative reviews could infer that something is amiss. Of course, be sure to take all past patient feedback on board. One negative response here or there may not be indicative of a larger problem – the doctor may just have been having a bad day. They are human like us, after all.

Question 4. Do I Feel Comfortable Around Them?

This is arguably the most important aspect of choosing a healthcare provider. Do you feel comfortable and at ease when you’re in their presence?

Opening up to a new doctor about a medical condition can be daunting, and you want to feel you have an open and comfortable space to be completely transparent about your symptoms. You don’t need to be made to feel embarrassed or ashamed by your illness. Instead, your doctor should always prioritize treating you, as their patient, with dignity and respect.

Question 5. What Are Their Fees?

Finally, how much do they charge? Ensure you’re aware of the charges for your appointment before you attend. In the US, an initial consultation usually costs between $100 – $200. Visits to medical specialists can cost more than this.

To be sure, check the clinic’s appointment fees on their website. Also, be sure to budget for any extra costs – like taking out a prescription at the chemist, or purchasing any medicines the doctor recommends.

Choosing a healthcare provider is not always easy. There are several questions you need to ask yourself to ensure you’re making the right decision.

Namely, is the doctor qualified and experienced? Also, do you trust their medical advice? Do they have a good reputation? And perhaps most importantly, do you feel comfortable in their presence? Finally, can you afford their appointment fees?

Checking the answers to all of these questions before you make your appointment can help you ascertain whether the healthcare provider is right for you.