Work Closely With Your Doctor

Finding a Doctor Who Will Be a Partner

Your family doctor or a general practitioner who knows and understands your needs can be your most valuable health partner. In choosing a doctor, there are lots of questions to ask, but these three matter the most:

• Is the doctor well trained and experienced?
• Will the doctor be available when needed?
• Will the doctor work in partnership with me?

Training and experience

Most family doctors and general practitioners have broad knowledge about many common medical problems. Some have additional training or experience in particular areas. For example, some family doctors may take a special interest in sports medicine, maternity, or environmental illnesses, to name a few. If you have a particular health concern or interest, it is worth looking into the backgrounds of doctors in your community. You may find this information by asking your friends and family, looking in the phone directory under Physicians and Surgeons, or contacting the College of Family Physicians of Canada.

Availability

Because health problems rarely develop when it's convenient, it helps to have a doctor who can see you when needed. Before you select a doctor, call or visit his or her office. Tell the clinic receptionist that you are looking for a new doctor. Ask these questions:

• Is the doctor accepting new patients?
• What are the office hours?
• If I called right now for a routine visit, how soon could I be seen?
• How much time is allowed for a routine visit?
• If I cancel an appointment, will I be charged for it?
• Will the doctor discuss health problems over the phone or by e-mail?
• Who fills in for the doctor when he or she is not available?
• What hospitals does the doctor use?

Partner potential

During your first visit, tell your doctor that you would like to share in making treatment decisions. Pay attention to how you feel during the visit.

• Does the doctor listen well?
• Does the doctor speak to you in terms you can understand?
• Does the doctor spend enough time with you?
• Do you think you could build a good working relationship with the doctor?

If the answers are no, look for another doctor. It may take more than one visit for you to decide whether you will be able to work with a doctor.

Is it time for a change?

If you are unhappy with how your doctor treats you, it may be time for a change. Before you start looking for a new doctor, talk with your current doctor how you would like to be treated. Your doctor will probably be pleased to work with you as a partner if you tell him or her that's what you want. If you don't make your wishes known, your doctor may think that you, like many people, want him or her to do all the work.

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Author:	Katy E. Magee, MA Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: July 31, 2006
Medical Review:	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine
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