When moving to a new area, there are many things you must get organized. One of the most important is finding a new doctor. Follow these steps and give yourself enough time to search for a new doctor, who will fit your needs.

1. Make a list of expectations for your new doctor.
Does this doctor’s office accept your health insurance? Think about the qualities you like about your current doctor. You will want someone who will listen to your concerns. Does this new doctor “speak your language”, figuratively and literally? Is the office in a convenient location for you?

2. Decide what type of doctor you want.
Which type of doctor is best for you? Do you want a general practitioner, who treats a wide variety of health problems? Would you like a doctor who cares for all ages, or a general internist that only cares for adults? Or do you need someone with additional training in a certain area such as a specialist?

3. Ask around for advice.
Talk to friends and family about doctors they recommend. Maybe your current doctor can also make some recommendations. You can contact a local hospital you respect; local, county, or state medical societies; and or medical organizations for recommendations.

You can check your new doctor’s credentials online. The Administrators in Medicine have a list of state websites that give this type of information.

4. Call your selected doctors’ offices.
Once you have made a list of preferences, you may want to contact them and ask the following:

• Whether the doctor accepts your insurance.
• The doctor’s education and training.
• How long the wait is for an appointment.
• Who processes claims – the office or you?
• The doctor’s experience with chronic health conditions you might have.
• Who will see you or answer questions when the doctor is unavailable?
• Whether the doctor works with other health care professionals and how often you will see these people rather than your doctor.

The purpose of this is to narrow your choice of doctors.

5. Make an appointment to talk to the doctor.
This will give you time to interview the doctor to see how well you communicate with one another. You can ask more information about the doctor’s experience and office policies. This may cost you, and your health insurance may not pay for it.

6. Transfer your medical information.
Once you have selected a new doctor, talk with your current doctor about getting your medical records in order. Make sure to give your current doctor enough time to prepare your files to ensure a smooth transition.

All this can be very overwhelming, but following these steps can make the process easier and less stressful.

Source: Mayo Clinic