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SALT LAKE CITY — The world of health and medicine can be confusing to many parents. But Nurse Suzy is here to help clarify some of the issues that are important to you and your family.
This week's question deals with picking a family physician.
Question:
How do I pick a good doctor for my family and myself? Answer:
Picking a physician is easier than you may think. Like most situations in today's world, it's who you know more than what you know.
The first step to picking a doctor is finding out which physician or physician groups your insurance will cover. Not many people can afford to pay for a physician they really like because their insurance company will not cover the physician group he or she belongs to. It's better to pick a physician your insurance will cover rather than worry about the bill later. Healthcare is too expensive to do that.
Second, pick a family practice physician close to where you live. Traveling all over the valley takes time and does not produce that much of a healthcare difference. Also, family practice physicians can cover most of your family’s medical needs. A great physician will know his or her limits then refer you to a specialist if you need one. In fact, they usually refer you to a specialist they would go to themselves.
It is also very important to make sure you have a good, clear two-way communication with any health care provider you choose.
Third, if you are still not sure what physician to go to, the person you should seek out — in my opinion — is a nurse you know. Most nurses will not tell you what physician to see, nor will they discredit a physician they would not see. But they work with these doctors every day and can recommend a physician who they feel does a really good job.
It is also very important to make sure you have clear, two-way communication with any health care provider you choose. Health care providers need to hear what you are telling them and not just tell you what they can or will do for you. There are many different types of personalities in the health care arena, and some will just not be a good match for your needs. That doesn't necessarily mean the physician is a bad doctor, but you need to feel comfortable with the person providing your medical care. Sometimes it will take visits to several different physicians before you find the one you feel meets your needs.
Finding a good physician is an important part of your personal responsibility for your healthcare. Making a good choice in which doctor you see will make all the difference in the world when it comes to feeling safe and cared for.
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Suzanne Carlile, "Nurse Suzy," has been a nurse since 1982. Her main focus of nursing is Critical Care areas and Nursing Education. She holds a master's degree in nursing, is a Certified Emergency Nurse, and a member of NNSDO Intermountain West Chapter.
