Written by: Susan Evora

Not scientifically-reviewed by Dr. EeKs

Finding your family doctor can be tough, especially nowadays when healthcare professionals are in high demand all over the country. Still, you need someone to speak to when you have health concerns, but you also want a doctor who understands your problems and treats you with respect. So how can you find the right healthcare professional for you? 

Ask For Referrals 

If you have friends or family who rave about their doctor or dentist, ask them for referrals. While the very best healthcare providers are often fully booked and no longer taking new patients, you could get lucky, and having someone who knows them can help you get your foot in the door, which could give you more of a chance of being accepted. 

Use Search Engines

However, what can you do if you don’t know anyone local? You can’t just wander the streets searching for a doctor who may or may not be perfect for you. Instead, you can use the power of the internet. Googling (or Binging) the top doctor or top dentist near me can provide a wide range of options. From there, you can check out their website to get a better idea about who they are and what they offer. If you’re looking for general care or a family doctor, search for options that offer everything. If you’re only searching for an optometrist or podiatrist, narrow your search by using those terms. 

Think About What You Need 

It’s also worth considering what you need from your doctor. Are you looking for someone for yourself or a family member, like your kids or elderly parents? Do you want an honest doctor with whom you can make the most of doctor discussions to ensure total transparency? All doctor-patient relationships are different, and various personalities can get more from one doctor than another, so bear this in mind when searching for the perfect practitioner. 

Check Reviews 

The internet can also help you determine whether a healthcare professional is right for you before you even meet them. Using doctor review sites can help you get the lowdown on what they are like, including their treatment, bedside manner, and punctuality. While it’s true that most people are only inclined to leave reviews after a bad experience, it’s still a useful tool to help you figure out what you can expect from your doctor or dentist and make it easier to whittle down options. 

Consider Your Location 

The location of their practice is also something to consider. You don’t want to spend hours driving back and forth, especially if you have long-term health issues that require regular check ups. Instead, the practice should be near enough that you can get there in an emergency. If the doctor does home visits, this is a bonus, although such services are not as common as they used to be, with telehealth or phone calls being more popular. 

Your Health First 

You should always put your health first. If you feel your current healthcare provider isn’t working out, these tips can help you find someone new to ensure you get the best care and feel better about your health and well-being.