Keeping your loved ones healthy can be challenging. With the help of a good family physician, though it can be a whole lot easier. But what do you do if you need to change addresses and move to another state? Here’s how to find the right one for you and your family:
Ask around
Moving to a new home means you’ll need to stay on top of a lot of details, including finding a new physician. For starters, reach out to your neighbors and ask. You’d be surprised by how much information could come your way. If you’re lucky enough, you could get references to lead you to the best doctors in town.
Set an appointment
You’ll want to meet with those doctors face to face, says Consumer Reports. Call in and set an appointment. If the staff is rude to you in any way or you could feel them rushing you through the call, then those might be signs that it’s better to look elsewhere.
Consider credentials
An internal medicine doctor makes for the ideal family physician since they have the knowledge and medical training to make the proper diagnosis. A general practitioner also makes for a good choice so keep these things in mind when it’s time to pick a doctor.
Ask about their experience
Don’t forget to ask about their experience. How long have they been doing this? There’s something reassuring about hiring an experienced doctor over one who’s fresh out of med school. So don’t be shy about asking potential doctors about their length of experience in the field.
Factor in compatibility
While credentials count, compatibility matters even more. So be sure to find a family doctor in the area that you and your loved ones are comfortable with. If the doctor has a way with kids and puts yours at ease, then go with that option. That should make it easy to settle into your new home.