How to Choose a Family Doctor or an Internal Medicine Doctor

Choosing the right doctor can make a big difference in your health care experience. While you are somewhat limited by your particular health insurance plan, you can choose a family doctor or an internal medicine doctor that fits your needs. If you take your time picking your primary doctor, you can avoid the hassle of changing if you decide later that this doctor is not right for you.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask your health insurance provider for a list of supported doctors. Your health insurance company will have a list of doctors that accept your insurance plan. Be sure that you choose an internal medicine or family doctor from this list or your insurance company will not provide the maximum coverage.

    • 2

      Read doctor profiles. You can often learn about the doctors through your health insurance company. Doctor profiles may include brief notes about the doctor's education, work history and even personal hobbies. This can help you narrow down your choices.

    • 3

      Look at the location of doctors. Consider whether you want a doctor that's close to your home or close to your work. A family doctor close to home can be a big convenience when you are sick, but choosing a doctor that's close to work can help you to make quick wellness visits during your lunch break.

    • 4

      Get referrals from friends, family or coworkers when picking a primary doctor. Ask the people you know if they like their doctors. Coworkers can be a great resource because they have the same health insurance plan as you.

    • 5

      Consider additional special requests, such as your personal preferences. For example, you may prefer to have a male or female family doctor. Also, you may want to find a doctor that is supportive of extended breastfeeding or open to alternative medicine.

    • 6

      Contact the doctor's office to see if she is accepting new patients. Once you've found the doctor that you want, ask if she can take you on as a new patient.

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