Finding a Doctor

With the stresses involved in moving, there’s enough to keep the busiest woman harried for several months. Not only will you have to find your way around town, but you’ll be challenged to find new supermarkets, the closest dry cleaner, best schools, etc.

It’s easy to place priority on other aspects of your life when relocating but finding a good doctor is important to maintaining good health. Plus, being an established patient will allow you quicker access when you need to see your physician.

When choosing a new doctor, it’s important you factor in your needs, wants and medical history. If you suffer from a chronic disease like high blood pressure, or are planning to become pregnant or are currently pregnant, ask your primary doctor and/or Ob/Gyn before you move whom he or she recommends.

Next, visit both professional society websites. A good start would include:

• American Medical Association – www.ama-assn.org
• Nevada State Medical Association – www.nsmadocs.org
• Clark County Medical Society – www.clarkcountymedical.org
• Nevada Osteopathic Medial Association – www.nevadaosteopathic.org

Any physician you’re considering should possess the board certification or sub-specialty board certification for his or her area of specialty. For instance, an Ob/Gyn should be board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology (frequently indicated by FACOG following their name), or a fertility specialist should be sub-specialty board certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility.

There are also consumer groups along with assorted blogs about local healthcare. A simple Google search should reveal ample resources. Just remember, not all these reports are unbiased or reliable so use this information in conjunction with the other techniques recommended.

Ask the human resources department at your work for recommendations. While they can’t endorse a doctor per se, they often hear employee recommendations.

Another great resource is asking friends, neighbors, and family. Their input will likely inform you of a doctor’s timeliness, ease of scheduling appointments, and bedside manner among other things.

Lastly, make a list of the three top practitioners based on the criteria most important to you and visit their websites to familiarize yourself with their services. Then, make an appointment. Only a personal consultation will allow you the full appreciation of what they can offer you or your family. With the wealth of physicians and specialists in southern Nevada, there’s no reason to postpone your health and well-being.

Courtesy of S. Chayra, President, Chayra Communications