Index Of The Blog
Check Out this New Patient Checklist
Choosing a new practice can be a difficult decision, especially when you don’t know where to start. That’s why we created a checklist to help you navigate through this process and know what to keep in mind when looking for a new doctor. While searching online for the best doctor for you, or the best pediatrician for your child, you can look back at this checklist to make sure your potential new provider meets all of your requirements.
Do their Services Align with My Needs?
One of the first things you should check when looking for a new provider is that they can take care of everything you are looking for. With practices offering so many different services, it’s important to find one that lines up with what you need. To start your search, you can make a list of everything you are looking for your provider to have knowledge of. This way you can eliminate having to find another provider in the future. If they have everything on your list except for one thing, you can call to ask if they are able to provide this service. One service to consider is if they offer telehealth consultations. This could be very useful if you are often out of town, or simply don’t always want to drive into their office. Another service to consider is if they offer same day appointments and how long it often takes to make an appointment. If they are booked out for months at a time and you are not a long term planner, it may be a good idea to find a different provider.
What Resources do they Offer?
These days, providers are coming up with many different ways to be as supportive as possible of their patients. These are often listed on their website. For example, if you are parenting a child who deals with a specific disorder you can ask what resources they have that would be helpful to you. Something else to check is how easy it is to navigate their website and if they have a mobile app. An outdated website could make it frustrating to look up information or set up appointments in the future. An app would be useful if you are someone who likes to have easy access to your health information.
Is the Staff Knowledgeable?
Make sure to check on the credentials of the staff at the practice, especially if there is something you want them to have specific knowledge of. Their website will often list the education and credentials of each staff member. Some staff members could have certain training or certifications that could be helpful to you. For example, if you are planning on having a baby soon, it could be useful to find a pediatrician with a lactation specialist on hand. If there is something specific that is not listed on their website, you can always call to ask what experience the staff has with it.
Is the Office Convenient to me?
Make sure the provider is within a distance that is easy for you to get to. If you are looking for a doctor for your child in Stapleton,for example, starting with an online search of Stapleton Pediatrics can help you find a provider near you. You will get a feel on your first visit if the location is within a manageable distance to your house. Be sure to check the office hours and if they line up with your schedule before committing to a provider. If the office is only open when you’re at work, you may want to look around at other providers. You may be able to find one that has evening or weekend appointments available.
Once you find an office that fits all of these needs, it’s time to set up an appointment to meet with the provider. Make sure to go over any questions about their services and resources on the initial visit. If they meet your needs, and the staff is helpful and knowledgeable, you have found the right provider for you.
