Whether your usual primary care practice is undergoing changes or you're moving to a new area, finding a new doctor in your locale isn't always difficult. As with any decision that affects your family, there are a few tips you can use to find the right fit.
What type of primary care doctor do you need?
While most primary care doctors hold the same qualifications, others may have special interests that appeal to you. For example, do you need one with additional training in paediatrics? Or, maybe extra qualifications in sexual health could proof useful? Whatever your requirements, make a note of them before searching for a doctor in your area. Additionally, you need to ensure you find the right one for your financial requirements. For example, do they work with bulk billing policies?
What does your household need from the doctor's practice?
Few primary care doctors work on their own. Many employ practice nurses, provide travel services, and work alongside other allied health professionals. Similarly, does their practice employ specialist nurses working in an area of health that interests you, such as diabetes or respiratory care? Identifying such needs in advance of finding a new doctor in your area becomes especially important when you need to see someone on a regular basis.
Create your short list, then use other criteria
Once you know what you want from your new doctor, create a short list of those who meet your requirements. Then, check them out against other criteria that make life convenient. For example, how far away from your home are they? Do they provide parking? Are their practice hours conducive to your working hours? Consider everything that makes using health care services convenient, then reduce your list as much as possible.
Take your shortlisted candidates and visit them
After creating a final candidate shortlist, arrange to visit them. If you want to make the process faster, consider going to their practice just to pop your head inside. Practices that look unkempt are often a sign of someone who isn't investing well in their business. Making an appointment to see the practice and meet your prospective doctor is a good way to ensure you're a good fit in terms of personality. While they're not a person you'll see every day, it's important to feel comfortable with approaching them.
Looking for a new doctor in your area is a life event that should take some thought. When you organise your approach, you won't need to wait too long before registering with your new physician.
