Physician

So, rather than overwhelming yourself by jumping right in to healthcare provider directories online, the best way to start is good old-fashioned word of mouth, said Harlan Krumholz, M.D., a cardiologist at Yale University and volunteer for the American Heart Association. That is where we come in, at All-Care we search for reviews and feedback from clients to find the right physician for you.

 

Communication is the Thing

One of the most important aspects of the healthcare provider-patient relationship is communication. You must be comfortable with your physician. "If you meet someone that doesn't match your communication style, you should switch. .Another part of the initial screening process is checking out a physician's credentials. "Check their board certification statuses and make sure that your doctor is board certified to ensure quality care," Krumholz said. If they are not board certified then you should ask why not.

Are you choosing a Primary Care Physician?

One of the best ways to make sure you're getting excellent health care is to have a primary care physician (PCP) with whom you can build a long-term relationship-someone who knows your medical background and understands what's important to you. Traditionally PCPs fall into three specialties - Family Medicine (treating patients of all ages), Internal Medicine (treating adult patients) or Pediatrics (treating children from birth through adolescence). Women will often choose a Gynecologist or Obstetrician for their primary care needs. When you have a physician you know and trust, you feel comfortable talking about anything. And, all your basic care—including routine exams, preventive care and treatment for illnesses or injuries— goes more smoothly and easily. Your PCP also knows when it's best to refer you to a specialist

Do you want a doctor who is close to home or work?

Traditionally, most doctors' appointments were scheduled during the day, Monday through Friday. Now, more and more doctors have office hours in the early mornings, evenings and weekends. So you should consider where you are during these times. At work? At home? Helping out at your children's school? This will help you find a doctor who is the most convenient for you.

Are you more comfortable with a male or a female doctor?

Discussing health issues and treatments can be a very personal experience. It's important that you are comfortable talking to your doctor about any medical situation that may come up. Deciding whether you prefer a male or female doctor can ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.

Do you have any language requirements?

Let's face it, treatments and diagnoses can be pretty complex regardless of what language they're in. That's why it's important for you and your doctor to be able to communicate without any language barriers. Choosing a doctor who speaks your native language will help ensure good communication.

 

Does the doctor accept your health insurance?

 

To avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket health care expenses, we will find a doctor who accepts your health insurance.

 

Health Maintenance Guidelines

"How often should I visit my doctor?"
"What vaccinations do I need? When do I need them?"

Our network comprised of primary care physicians, specialists, and health educators, reviews new information and regularly updates our recommendations regarding who needs which screening tests and when. We review controversies as they come up, examining the medical literature and the quality of the published evidence. We encourage our patients to ask questions and take a partnership approach with their providers to maximize their health and obtain the preventive screening tests that really matter.

 

Am I getting the best care possible?

Whether dealing with your primary care physician or your spcialist, don’t hesitate to look elsewhere if you feel uncomfortable about their care or how they interact with you. Contact us to make the transition easier. 

If there is any question about recommended practices, you should seek a "second opinion,” noting a few of the possible reasons for looking around:

• When you feel that the communication style is not matching your own

• If your doctor is not connecting with you

• If the recommendation involves an intervention that is risky or expensive and you are unsure of the reason you need it

 

You should know that even good doctors do not always make the same recommendations and it is often good to hear different viewpoints.

 

If you are concerned about your doctor's legal history,  we will check that out as well.

 

Overall, there are many good doctors – but you need to find the right fit for you. There are many styles and choices even among those that know their stuff the best.

 

 Contact us to find the best physician that meets your needs.