Once you know which kind of doctor will best fit your needs, one of the best resources available may be people you know. Family members and friends can share first-hand experiences of their interactions with certain doctors. Or, if you are already receiving health care services from a different type of provider, such as a Home Health Care Agency, they may be able to recommend a doctor they work with. When these methods are insufficient, you may turn to contacting a hospital, medical society, or physician referral service to find a reliable physician.

Typically, senior citizens who seek healthcare need medical insurance. Insurance pays for doctor’s visits and necessary medical treatments, which may become expensive. People who have medical insurance plans pay a monthly fee in exchange for hospital and prescription drug coverage. Keep in mind that plans may vary by cost, types of coverage, and eligibility, so it is important to find a plan that fits into your budget while still taking care of your needs.

Once you have found a new doctor and attained a secure method of paying for healthcare, your previous doctor will facilitate the switch by providing medical records to the new doctor you have chosen. Be sure to tell your previous physician about your switch to a new doctor.

It is important to look for doctors who are trained, competent, and able to understand and be trusted with all the necessary information pertaining to their patients’ health. This type of relationship with a doctor is conducive to preventing health issues and managing your existing health concerns. To find out more about your new doctor you can contact the office’s receptionists, who can provide information about the following:

• Office policies

• Types of insurance plans accepted

• Payment methods

• Local hospitals that work with the office to perform diagnostic work or treatments

• Board certification of the doctor(s) who work at the office for the specialties they practice

• Location of the doctor’s office

• Whether the lab work is done at the office or another location

• Types and number of doctors working at the office

• Medical coverage when the doctor is out of town or otherwise unavailable

To prepare for your first appointment with a new doctor, it is a good idea to make a list of questions you may have about your own health concerns as well as further questions about the doctor. You should also prepare a list of medications, vitamins, and other non-food supplements you have been prescribed or recommended to take. At your first appointment with a new doctor, he or she may ask for information about your medical history and medical problems in your family. He or she will then physically examine you. It is important to be prepared with medical records, lists of allergies you are aware of, and all other information you think may be relevant for your doctor to know about your health and treatments.

If you found the doctor helpful and easy to talk to during your first appointment, then you may want to stay with him or her. Otherwise, you may make appointments with other doctors until you find one who fits your needs. Most importantly, you should find someone you can work with and form a relationship with in order to ensure efficient diagnosis and treatment of medical issues. For more help with these types of issues and concerns, browse our article database on the ElderCare Library section of www.TheCaringSpace.com.