A family doctor is a provider who has the skill to care for every member of your family, regardless of age. They do not replace a specialist but should have a general knowledge of common ailments, including those that may come due to age. It can really come in handy to have a family doctor that jives well with your family, but how to find them is the real issue. These few simple steps may help you in your search.
1. Do They Accept Your Insurance?
This may seem very elementary, but it is a good place to start. There is no point falling in love with a physician's bedside manner only to find out that you would have to pay through the nose to see him or her. Two ways to find out this information are to a) call your insurance agent and ask for a list of physicians in your area that accept your insurance, or b) call the physician's office directly and ask if they accept your insurance plan specifically.
2. Is Their Office Easy to Get to?
Okay, so you know that a doctor you like accepts your insurance, now let's think about logistics. When will you be going to this office? Is it in close proximity to your home, or do you have to travel an hour each way? If you have children, will you be able to get the help you need in an emergency? If you or your spouse is working, is it close enough to get to that you will be able to go on a lunch break, or would a checkup be a whole day ordeal? Do you have a car? If not, you may need to find a doctor along the bus route or at a comfortable walking distance. There is no reason to get established at a doctors' office if it is almost impossible for you to get to. Put in the time to find someone who is easily accessible for you.
3. Do You Have Good Rapport?
Do not settle for someone who you don't get on with. Rapport is the quality or ease of a relationship, and it can make or break an appointment with a doctor. If you, your spouse, or your children do not find it easy to talk to your doctor, keep looking until you can find someone who you can talk to.
Hopefully these few steps will help you in your search. The key to finding a good family doctor? Putting in the work! You can do it.