What You Should be Thinking About When Choosing Health Care Providers

For most people, choosing a health care provider starts by finding a physician that’s in their insurance network that’s also accepting new patients. Sadly, this is often the only factors considered when establishing a relationship.

While healthcare providers are abundant, there is more to choosing a provider than an opening on their patient list. In fact, choosing the right provider for your unique needs and personality could make a big difference in your health and longevity.

There are a lot of factors to consider when finding a good provider, here’s what you should be thinking about when making your choices-

Accessibility- Nowadays, it’s easy to access providers via Zoom, app, or chat. Patients are no longer limited to care providers within their community. It may be possible to access care from a preferred provider no matter where you live.

Communication style- It’s important to consider your provider’s communication style. Your time with the provider should feel informative and you should have a clear understanding of what’s going on with your health and any treatment plans developed. If you feel confused, dismissed, or dissatisfied, your provider may not be a good fit.

Experience- Not all providers have the same expertise. Finding providers who have greater experience with your unique mental and physical health needs makes a difference. Look for providers who specialize in the issues you are managing.

Reputation- Word gets around. Check reviews for your provider or the physician’s group as a whole. Pay attention to both the positive and negative feedback. Look for green and red flags that jive with what you are looking for in a provider.

Payment expectations- Not all providers accept every insurance and not all procedures are covered. Be certain to verify what your insurance provides. In some cases, it may be more cost effective or beneficial to your health to pay cash for services.

Building partnerships- You and your provider are a team. While your provider has expertise you don’t, you are an equal participant in your care. Finding a provider who displays empathy and actively includes you in care planning is essential.

Advocacy- Your provider should be an advocate for you or your family member and should welcome your advocacy for yourself or your loved one. This can include making referrals or actively listening to your questions, concerns, or requests. If you feel as though you can’t ask for what you want or provide input, you may not have the right provider for your unique needs.

Consistency- Everyone has an off day. If you feel like your experience with a provider wasn’t ideal, try again. If you consistently have a negative experience or your gut tells you somethings not right, pay attention. It may mean you need a different provider.

There’s a lot to choosing the right care provider. Much more than who’s in your insurance network. Be sure to consider what your unique needs are and look for providers who feel like part of the team!