Searching for a new doctor can feel like a shopping experience. You have a general idea of your healthcare needs and hope to find a doctor who can meet those needs.
For example, maybe you are in need of a new primary care provider and are looking for one you feel comfortable with and trust or, you have a new health concern and need a doctor who is able to spend more than 15 minutes with you in consultation.
5 Key Qualities
Here are 5 key qualities in a healthcare provider to consider during your new patient appointment:
1. Active Listening
Do you feel like the doctor is really listening to your concerns and validating them?
2. Problem-solving
Is the doctor interested in finding the root cause or just treating the symptoms and is this aligned with your needs?
3. Patient Education
Are your questions being answered to your understanding?
4. Treatment planning
Are you being provided reasonable treatment options based on your health goals?
5. Follow-up
Are your visits scheduled in a timely manner and are you comfortable with the amount of time the doctor spends with you?
More importantly, listen to your gut!
It's okay if the doctor is not a “good fit” simply because it doesn't “feel right.”
Developing a good doctor-patient relationship will enable you to voice your concerns and obtain the care you need.