How To Find A Good Doctor

Still, chances are you will need competent medical care at some point in your life. Rather than waiting for a catastrophic illness that will force you to find a physician, start looking now so you can get preventative medical help. Here are some tips for finding a qualified physician:

1. Find out who family and friends see for general or specialty care. If those you trust can willingly recommend doctors they have visited for minor concerns or major illnesses, call those physicians' offices to find out if they will accept new patients. You may be able to make a first-time check-up visit to become familiar with your new doctor's style and range of services. If you do not care for his or her manner, start looking again. Word of mouth is a very effective way to find a suitable physician.

2. Contact your local medical referral service. Many cities offer a medical referral service that will try to connect you with a doctor that practices in your part of town or who specializes in diseases with match your symptoms. Check your local yellow pages listing in the telephone book. Then call to find out how you can get the names of doctors who might be able to help you. You may need to pay for this service, though many are free, and you may be asked for personal information as the attendant works to match you with the best medical provider.

3. Browse the yellow pages listings. The telephone book's yellow pages, or commercial listings, include a section for "Physicians" that breaks down into specialty areas, like "Obstetrics" or "Internal Medicine." If you cannot find the specific type of listing you are looking for, check for a local medical organization or association that may be able to offer helpful information.

4. Do an online Web search. Go to a search engine and type in the medical specialty you are looking for, along with your state's name. When that listing, if any, comes up, further narrow your search by looking for names in your part of the state, or within driving distance. Web sites can tell you a great deal about each medical practice, such as the doctors' names, specialties, office hours, insurance information, and other details.

5. Contact the American Medical Association. Visit the Web site for many types of general information. For example, if you believe you have Lyme Disease, you may be able to find information there that will help you know whether you should consult a doctor. In addition, you can use the "Doctor Finder" link to access names of doctors in your area.

Getting the name of a qualified doctor who can help you is not particularly difficult, but it can take time. The results will be worth it when you find the person who can best treat your symptoms for a good outcome.