Your primary care physician (PCP), of course!
(No, not your best friend, although she might be a close second.)
At least thats the way itssupposedto go.
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Having a strong connection where you feel safe and comfortable sharing your needs is fundamental.
Dont underestimate word-of-mouth recommendations.
For example, Do you get the sense that this doctor reallylistensto you?
Do they ever rush through appointments?
Do they dismiss your concerns or body shame you?
Nurses and specialistslike cardiologistsusually have a good sense of who is thorough, personable, and responsive.
Do a social media sweep.
Not every doc has or needs a social media footprint.
But its becoming more common for physicians to build an online brand through Instagram and TikTok.
What is the doctor saying about health and their opinions on social media?
Before you commit to an appointment, double-check the boring-but-essential stuff checks out.
Most people would prefer to have the option to have a quick telehealth check-in, a2022 studyfound.
(Think refilling a prescription, reviewing a medication, or getting test results.)
This is a biggie!
And if you dont have health insurance, ask if they accept self-pay or offer payment plans.
I like to see how the office answers the phone and schedules new patients, Dr. Weissman says.
Look for green flags on your first visit.
At the first visit, I like to see how much attention theyre paying, Dr. Weissman says.
Are they making sure all of your questions are answered?
Keep an eye out for red flags too.
you could find someone else who will take your concerns seriouslyyour health depends on it.
You should never leave feeling belittled, or that your provider has been condescending, Dr. Leong says.
Ask how they communicate with patients.
Finding a primary care doctor who communicates effectivelyduringoffice visits is one thing.
But youll also be hitting up your primary care physician after you get back home.
As youre looking for a doc, ask how youd reach out to the office in cases like these.
If so, how often do they tend to check it and respond?
What about prescription refillsdo these happen automatically, or will you have to chase them down every few months?
Its also important to ask what happens after the office is closed, Dr. Weissman says.
A chat with the office administrator can also help you suss out other key considerations.
What about late feeshow much will you be charged if you should probably cancel?
And how much notice do they need?
Also attempt to find out what the process is like for follow-ups and referrals, Dr. Gupta says.
If you oughta see a specialist, can they help connect you with someone?
Or will they just say find an endocrinologist?
