Taking Control of Your Relationship With Your Doctors. 5 Factors To Consider- Do You Need A Change?
Raise your hand if you’ve ever had a doctor you didn’t love, but found yourself continuing to see them. Staying with a doctor you're not happy with is similar to staying in a relationship you know is bad. So, why do we do it? Maybe because it's easier than making a change, or maybe because we’ve never loved doctors and feel that it’s just the norm. However, actively making a change might be the healthiest move for you. It’s time to take control of our relationships with doctors and seek what serves us best.
Finding a doctor that you genuinely like helps:
Develop trust
Ensure you keep up with appointments
Keep an open line of communication
So, if you’re not sure you’re serving your health best with your current doctor choice, consider these 5 important factors… Maybe you need a change!
Establish What Type of Personality You Need
Do you value a warmer bedside manner, or do you like a doctor who is direct and blunt? Both types exist! Some patients care more about empathy and others want that doctor who gets right to the point. If you are with the type of doctor that doesn’t mesh with your needs, there are other options out there!
Value Your Time
Do you feel like you normally have to wait an hour to see your physician? And then you see him or her for about 4 minutes? You shouldn’t feel like you're being rushed. And you certainly shouldn’t feel like a burden. While everyone runs behind at times, if this is the norm that you are experiencing… yikes! Why stay with your doctor if they aren’t giving you the time you need and deserve?
Ask For Explanations
Your doctor should be open with you about recommendations. He or she should explain decisions and do so in terms you understand, not just jargon. At the end of the day, your health is too important to feel confused or kept in the dark.
See How You Feel In The Office
The receptionists and office aura are the connection between you and your doctor. Do they blow you off? Get back to you in a timely manner? Deliver your message? Even if you do like your doctor, an unprofessional office could be an indication you need a change. *This has been the factor for me changing in the past.
Are You Comfortable
You will be disclosing very personal information. If you don’t feel comfortable with your doctor, for whatever reason, you’ll be less inclined to share it all, which could hurt your health! People feel comfort differently. So, whats the vibe you get with your doctor? Make sure you like them and trust them. This is KEY.
We have so much access now to healthcare and reviews. Use it! Places to look for doctor reviews if you’d like to switch and try a new physician include:
Zocdoc
Google
Your Insurance Website (Cigna has a fantastic database)
Yelp
How do you feel about your doctor currently?