Finding a Good Specialist for YOURSELF

[Unlimited415]

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Wasn't sure which folder to post this is in...but chose this one.

I need to find two new doctors in my area.

A primary physician AND a one who can give me a neuropsychological evaluation, as I feel I'm increasingly forgetful lately (just to rule out any developing problems). Just being safe.

But like most people, I want the best (that my insurance will cover). I have a huge list of doctors my insurance will cover in my area, but no idea how to find out their skill level or reputation.

Maybe I should just assume they all know their stuff, but it IS personal, so I WOULD like the best (would also be a good experience seeing a good quality physician, from the premed point of view).

The specialist is my main concern, since the primary doctor I'll be seeing on and off for various things and can get a sense of his caliber over time. If I see a psychiatrist/neurologist, it's going to be one or two visits.

 

[sdn1977]

I'm not real sure this is actually a question which can or should be answered here, but you aren't asking for specific medical advice so I'll jump in.

Your primary will refer you to a specialist he/she feels is good. Depending on your insurance, you may need to get a referral from a primary anyway.

Referalls are always a good source. Have you lived in the area awhile? Ask your friends, family, coworkers. Likewise, you can go to a pharmacy. We see many aspects of physcians....how they prescribe, how their staff works (if they're rude to us & their patients, you already have a barrier to him/her), how responsive they are to things like patient calls, etc....We don't expect responses to pharmacy calls/faxes for 48-72 hours, but if it takes 2 weeks (Kaiser comes to mind)....you have problems. If a pt has a problem with a drug or an insurance issue....does the office handle it or does it get pushed aside?

If you have any nurse or tech friends who work in hospitals...you can get an idea of how physicians deal with them on an interpersonal level.

That being said....one of the very best intensivists I've ever worked with is an absolute jerk & a very angry/rude individual. However, if I were dying...he'd be the one I'd want my family to call.

So...its not just all "good feelings" - you can excuse a lot of bad behavior if they practice good medicine.

Most insurance plans will give you access to their credentials online - if that is any importance to you - you can see that.

Good luck!