I know this is a legal forum but I've been asked this question a lot these last couple of days. Let me know what ya think...and be kind, please
Some things to consider when shopping for a dr...
1. I personally stay clear from PA's and NP's in dr's offices. Its not that they don't know what they are doing, its that if I pay for an office visit to a dr, I expect to see a dr.
2. I make sure I'm the first appointment of the day so they don't waste my time later on in the afternoon.
3. If you need an OBGYN, make sure they aren't still delivering babies or you'll be waiting in the office for the baby to be born. If you have to see one still delivering, make the appointment during the time they are not "on call"
4. Check to be sure there are no sanctions on their license or disciplinary actions. This includes a check on their billing practices. I don't wait until the newspaper tells me they and been investigated for Medicaid fraud.
5. If I need a cardiologist and he suggests I need a heart cath (cardiac catherazation) I make sure he has privilages to place stents. Believe it or not, a good portion of them are allowed to do the procedure but not put stents in, making you come back for a second heart cath at your expense with a doctor who can. This goes for any procedure and any specialist.
6. Go by word of mouth from employees of the local hospital. Everyone knows a nurse or someone that does. Ask them not your friends and family. Really bad surgeons and other drs are known to be loved bc of their bedside manner, not skills. A good portion of the older population pick a dr based on their English speaking skills, not medical skills. If you cut me open, and I wake up with a drain coming out of me that wasn't part of the plan, I don't care how nice you are, your gonna answer to me when I wake up.
I have a really long list but I'll cut it for now, thought it just might help someone.


