How Doctors Find Doctors

Physician Heal Thyself isn't a true statement. When a doctor needs care, he goes to another doctor for that care. Doctors get better care than the average patient. Only part of the reason is professional courtesy, but really they get better care because they know how to find it.

Start Now. Build a great relationship with your primary care doctor. Have a doctor ready so that when you need emergency care, you can say "I'm Dr. Cooper's patient". Sometimes you can get care faster.

Look at the diplomas. See where they went to medical school. Look for state license and board certification in specialties.

Choose a hospital. Ask your doctors what hospitals they work with. Many doctors look for MDs who are affiliated with a medical school teaching hospital. It is harder to get privileges at such a facility.

Go for a pro. Ask your doctor how many of the procedures they've performed. You want one that knows what they're doing.

Pay attention to details. Does your doctor perform an exam everytime you visit? Does he listen to you or interrupt your answers? Check out his stethoscope. Does he have a pink tubing one with a drug brand on it? That means he got it for free. Tells you how serious he is about his job.

Ask to see your medical records. See what sorts of things he writes there. If you go to the hospital, they may need good information. A good doctor will have no problem with sharing YOUR information.

Bring a notepad. Don't be afraid to ask questions and write down things so you don't forget them. If things don't seem to be going well, ask for a second opinion.

Know when to schedule visits. Early appointments are more likely to be on time. Doctors are usually fresher in the morning.

Ask the nurse. The nurse works with all the doctors and knows better than anyone which ones take better care of their patients.