That's Fit

Picking a doctor isn't just as simple as thumbing through the yellow pages. You want to make sure that your doctor is well qualified to meet your medical needs and that he or she has a personality that suits yours. If you're the type of person who has a lot of medical questions, you'll want to make sure you find a doctor who spends a little more time with patients and is willing to field Q & A sessions.

I know that I've had doctors in the past who were distressing for one reason or another. I've also had doctors who were wonderful and I knew, with complete confidence, that either my or my son's medical needs were being met with thoughtful, educated, wise, and caring decisions.

To start your search, check with your insurance company to see what physicians in your area carry your insurance. Also, check with friends, family, and/or neighbors for personal references -- but be sure to take their personal experiences with a grain of salt. Then, follow these tips from Good Housekeeping for selecting a great doctor:

• Verify that the doctor is board certified. And be sure to check that she/he is board certified for the procedure you're seeing the doctor for. For example, a doctor could be a board certified doctor in one specialty but also practicing other specialties as well. (Good Housekeeping gives the example of an OB/GYN also performing liposuction.) Check the American Board of Medical Specialties to verify your doctor's certifications.
• Check with your state medical board or with docboard.org to verify your doctor has a clean record.
  
• Make sure your doctor is affiliated with a good hospital.
  
• Good Housekeeping also suggests checking your doctor's age. According to studies they cite, younger physicians are more likely to recommend screenings and follow current treatment guidelines. (Personally, I don't buy that. I think it has more to do with a physician's desire to stay up-to-date and that has more to do with drive and personality than age.)
• Finally, make sure your doctor's personality meshes with what you hope for in a doctor. Some doctors are more brisk and business like -- maybe that's your preference. Others are chattier and more willing to sit and talk things out. Find a physician who meets your personal needs.