Before you begin any new program you want to make sure you are medically cleared to do so and address all possible health issues that might impede your progress. So, first thing is first, you need an assessment of your health and if it has been awhile since you have been to the doctor, that is probably a good place to start. The problem is, nobody really LIKES going to the doctor, so it is important to find one that makes you feel comfortable so you don't avoid going when you need to.
I know we have all probably had a bad experience or two with doctors and there is probably a blog somewhere about all the horror stories! lol It is definitely true that it is hard to find a good doctor, but I promise there are some great ones out there! Sometimes it just requires a little research and a little good old fashion Q & A. Here are some tips to help you find one of the good ones:
1) IT'S ALL ABOUT YOU! Always remember you are in charge and you are the one interviewing when researching a doctor. Bottom line - you decide who becomes your doctor, so don't be bullied into making a decision you are not happy with.
2) ASK AROUND Ask family and friends for referrals. "Who's your doctor? Do you like them?" You would be surprised by how many people say "not really" yet continue to go to that doctor. You will find however, people who have great doctors will respond very enthusiastically and often have their doctor's details on hand to refer you.
3) EXPERIENCE & TRAINING Look at your medical insurance provider's web page because the physicians listed here will accept your insurance. Usually there is a section that lists physicians in your area by location, specialty, hospital affiliation, etc. This is a great way to look at a bunch of doctors in your area that meet you specific needs. Here you will find information regarding the doctors education, where they did their residency, board certification, interests and affiliations. There are often also pictures so you can get a gut sense of whether or not you FEEL like this person could be your doctor. From there, you can further research them via their facility or practice website. You should also check out http://www.bestdoctors.com/corp/index.html. Best Doctors conducts an exhaustive, peer-reviewed survey of the medical profession, polling more than 50,000 doctors across the country. My doctor is on this list and I will definitely say she deserves to be! Although this might seem like a lot of work, in the end it is worth it because the more you know, the more comfortable you feel in your choices.
4) OFFICE LOCATION AND HOURS Once you find a doctor that has the experience and training you are looking for, the next thing to consider is office location. Are they close enough so it won't feel like a hassle to go there? Do they have parking available? Also consider what are their office hours and do those realistically coincide with your schedule. Be honest with yourself about these things. The more convenient it is for you, the less likely you are to put off your appointments.
5) AVAILABILITY Once you have a few doctors that have "made the cut" start calling their offices. Are they accepting new patients? How long will it be to make an appointment for a routine appointment/check up? How long will it take to make an appointment when you are sick? Is the person on the phone friendly and attentive? Remember all of these things are important because they are all part of your overall medical experience and you want that experience to be a good one, so you are more likely to go and feel good about it.
6) YOUR VISIT If you decide on a doctor but after your appointment you realize you made the wrong choice, then SWITCH TO A NEW ONE. You are never stuck! This is your health we are talking about so you want a partner in your journey to and through a fit and healthy life. You deserve a doctor you can trust and one that listens to you and addresses your needs and concerns.
I have an AMAZING doctor, Dr. Karen Cheng at UCLA Women's Health Center, and what a difference it makes for me! I found her using these steps, so they work! If you live in the LA area, I highly recommend her. She is pictured here and I have also included a link to her profile because she is THAT AWESOME! http://www.uclahealth.org/body.cfm?xyzpdqabc=0&id=479&action=detail&ref=13088
So, my question to you is - Do you like your doctor? If not, please see Step 1 and get started!
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