Choosing A Healthcare Provider That’s Right For You

At some point in our lives, we will undoubtedly require medical attention. It may be for a cold, the flu or something more serious. Whatever the severity of the need, the fact remains that the medical practitioner you choose will have a huge impact on your impression and opinion of the healthcare system for years to come. If you have a negative or unrewarding experience, it may seriously delay your desire to seek medical attention in the future.
In today’s era of managed care and more complex healthcare organizations, individuals sometimes find it difficult to establish a meaningful and satisfying relationship with their medical provider. A friend recently described her appointment with a physician like this: “The doctor came in the room and I was met with a barrage of questions and complex sentences intertwined with medical terminology in rapid-fire succession. Ten, maybe fifteen minutes later I left the office slightly more confused than when I arrived. Medication and instructions in hand, I went about my business, slightly unsure of the diagnosis and what the future would hold.”
Patients can greatly contribute to the success of each medical visit or encounter. To do this, one must be actively involved in the decisions that affect their health and wellness. An important step in this process begins with the selection of your medical provider.
Tips On Selecting A Medical Provider
There are a number of things you can do to help insure that you select a practitioner who is qualified, competent and with whom you feel comfortable. Here are some practical tips:

• Ask for referrals from people you know and trust.
• Don’t be afraid to ask your provider about his or her qualifications.
• Find out about his or her beliefs on health and wellness.
• If important to you, ask if your doctor is open to holistic as well as other forms of alternative medicine.
• Ask the doctor for references.
• Does the physician take time to talk with his or her patients and explain what is involved in the diagnosis or treatment of illnesses?
• Is the physician receptive to patients seeking other opinions if necessary?

Intelligent patients and consumers can significantly impact the care they receive within the health care system. The selection of a medical practitioner begins with a wise and intelligent choice at the onset of the consultation and treatment.