There’s a lot to consider when choosing a physician for your health care needs including experience, specialty, online access, professional interests, health plans and so much more. We’ve put together a list of questions you might want to consider when choosing a physician.
Are you choosing a Primary Care Physician?
These days a lot of patients are taking the quick and easy route by going to Urgent Care Centers for time and convenience. One of the best ways to ensure that you are getting excellent health care is to have a primary care physician (PCP) with whom you can build a long-term relationship – someone who knows and understands your medical background and what’s important to you. Traditionally, PCPs fall into three specialties:
Internal Medicine Center offers both Family Medicine and Internal Medicine. When you have a dedicated physician handling your healthcare needs that you know and trust, you feel more comfortable talking about just about anything. And, all your basic care, routine exams, preventative care and treatment for illnesses or injuries – goes more smoothly and efficiently. Best of all, they know when it’s best to send you to a specialist. IMC has a multitude of specialists to choose from.
Do you want a physician who is close to home or work?
This is an important thing to consider when scheduling your appointments. Do you want your appointments scheduled during the day, Monday through Friday? If so, you’ll want someone close to work. If you have a lot going on at home, you’ll want someone close by when you make your appointments. Keeping this in mind will help you find the option most convenient for you.
It’s also good to know that Internal Medicine Center offers internal labs, most tests, and an in-house Walk-In Clinic.
Do you want to be able to access your doctor’s office online?
Many practices now offer convenient online services, so patients can use the web to view appointments, lab work, vitals, communicate with their doctor, and more. This is something that IMC offers through its patient portal.
Are you more comfortable with a male or female physician?
Discussing health issues and treatments can be a very personal experience. It’s important that you feel comfortable talking with your doctor about any medical situation that may come up. Deciding whether you prefer a male or female doctor can ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.
Does the medical practice accept your health insurance?
This is something you don’t want to have to figure out after you make your appointment. To avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, you will want to find a physician who accepts your health insurance. It’s a good idea to contact the medical practice’s customer service department regarding the specifics of your plan type and coverage.
Do you want a physician who specializes in a particular type of medicine?
Internal Medicine Center has a variety of specialists to choose from. When selecting a specialist, it’s a good idea to make sure the physician is covered under your insurance plan. If have an HMO plan you will probably need to obtain a referral or authorization from your primary care physician (PCP) before scheduling a visit with a specialist. Here at IMC, we have primary care physicians working closely with our specialists.
Is there a hospital close to your home or work that you’d like access to?
You might want to find a physician who is affiliated, or has privileges at that hospital.
