Are you in the process of choosing an internal medicine doctor? Maybe you have ongoing GERD or need consultation on a possible heart valve problem. Let’s learn about the factors to consider in making this important decision about your healthcare.
What Is an Internal Medicine Doctor?
Internal medicine doctors are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions. They can also serve as primary care physicians (PCPs), delivering many preventive services, such as vaccines, annual physicals, and cancer screenings. PCPs also care for acute and chronic health conditions like pneumonia and diabetes.
However, internal medicine doctors often offer subspecialty care, such as cardiology, obstetrics and gynecology, neurology, and more. They confer with family physicians who serve as their patients’ PCPs.
In a multispecialty group, several internal medicine doctors coordinate with each other, so the patients can receive preventive and specialty care from physicians they know and trust.
How Do You Know Which Internal Medicine Doctor to Use?
There are many factors to think about in making this decision. Ultimately, the choice is up to you.
So, do some research before determining which physician is best for your specific health needs and goals. Here is how we recommend you proceed.
Ask for a Referral
Your current PCP can be a good source for a referral. Your primary care doctor knows your health needs, history, and personality and is familiar with providers in your area.
Also, ask a reliable relative, co-worker, neighbor, or friend for a recommendation. Check online patient review websites for general information. Read about appointment availability, staff friendliness, wait times, and other aspects of the doctor’s practice.
Check the Doctor’s Qualifications
Look at the doctor’s website under the “meet our team” or biography section. You will find details on education, work experience, specialties and certifications. Ask yourself, “Does this physician have the skills and expertise I need for my condition?”
Also, board-certification is important. So, go online to the American Board of Medical Specialties website–certificationmatterts.org. You can verify if your prospective internal medicine doctor is certified in their medical specialty.
Consider Your Health Insurance
When looking for a new doctor, it’s important to know whether or not they accept your insurance. Check your insurance company’s website or call their customer service line for a list of providers in your network.
Also, call your potential new provider’s office to speak with the staff member who handles the insurance. Ensure that you follow through on this important detail. Know your co-pays, too, so that you do not have any surprise out-of-pocket expenses or sudden learning that a critical service is not covered by your health insurance policy.
Arrange an In-office Consultation with the Internal Medicine Doctor
A face-to-face visit with the new physician can tell you a lot about bedside manners, professionalism, and communication style.
Specifically, observe how the doctor interacts with you. Does the physician listen actively to your concerns and provide clear explanations? Do you feel comfortable asking questions and expressing your needs?
It’s important to establish a good rapport with your internal medicine doctor as this will greatly impact the quality of care you receive. So, go with your “gut” feeling. If you feel rushed or disrespected in any way, move on to another provider.
Consider Location and Convenience
You want an office location convenient to your home, school, or place of employment. Also, consider the office hours and availability of appointments.
Can they accommodate your schedule? Is there a way to communicate with the doctor after hours in case of emergency or urgent needs?
Additionally, consider the resources and amenities available at the clinic or hospital where the physician practices. Are there labs, imaging services, or other specialists readily accessible if needed? As healthcare becomes more complex, you need to streamline the diagnosis and treatment processes and availability as much as you can.
Finding the Best Internal Medicine Doctor in West Orange, NJ
At Hudson MD Group, we provide New Jersey area residents with the finest internal medicine care available. We understand the complexities of diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care, and we coordinate services among our medical specialists as needed.
To learn more about our services and to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced providers, call us at (973) 705-4914 or use our online appointment request form. Get the care you need and deserve by calling us today!
