If you don’t have a family doctor (primary care physician), now is the time to get one. Everyone needs a regular doctor. A host of specialists working on separate health problems may not see the whole picture. In choosing a doctor there are lots of questions to ask, but these three matter the most:

•    Is this doctor well-trained and experienced?

•    Is this doctor available when needed?
•    Will this doctor work in partnership
with me?

Training and Experience

For most people, a good choice for a family doctor is a board-certified family practice doctor or internist. These doctors have broad knowledge about medical problems. See page 12 for a brief description of medical specialists

Availability

Because health problems rarely develop when it’s convenient, it helps to have a doctor who can see you when needed. Call or visit the office. Tell the clinic receptionist that you are looking for a new doctor. Ask these questions:
•    What are the office hours?

•    If I called right now for a routine visit, how soon could I be seen?

•    How much time is allowed for a routine visit?

•    Will the doctor discuss health problems over the phone?

•    Does this doctor work with nurse practitioners or physician assistants? These primary care providers have special training for managing minor and routine medical problems. For many health problems, these professionals can often see you sooner, spend more time with you, and help you just as well as a doctor. Also ask if the doctor is eligible for maximum payments under your health plan.

Partner Potential

During your first visit, tell your doctor that you would like to share in making treatment decisions .
Pay attention to how you feel during the visit.
•    Does the doctor listen well?
•    Do you think you could build a good working partnership with this doc-
tor?
If the answers are “no;’ consider looking for another doctor.

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