Moves for Seniors Blog

Moving to a new home or location involves many changes, one of which is finding a new doctor. Sometimes you feel like your current doctor isn’t as attentive as you would like them to be. The main thing to remember when changing doctors is to do research. If you are a senior moving and uncomfortable doing the research ask an adult child, a senior move manager, or someone that you trust to help find a new doctor for you.

Below is a checklist of items you will need to look into before choosing a doctor.

Check with your insurance company. Each insurance company covers specific doctors, the doctors that are covered directly by the insurance company are considered in network and those that are not covered are out of network. Utilizing an in network doctor will decrease the amount you will have to pay out of pocket. Out- of- network doctors will cost more money, either by charging a larger co-pay or doctor bill. Call or visit your insurance company’s website to find out if a doctor you are considering is in your network.

Look into certification. Verify that the doctor you are considering is certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Also, make sure that they are continuing their education by checking Certification Matters.

Office policies. There are many questions and things to look into regarding office policies.

• How long does it take to make an appointment? Can you get an appointment when you need it?
• How much time will you spend in the waiting room? Are they overbooked?

• How is the staff? Spend some time in the office if you can, if not call and talk to the office staff. Are they helpful or are they quick to dismiss you?
• Where is the office located in relation to your new home? How far will you need to travel to an appointment?
• Do they have the convenience of a patient portal to locate your test results?
• Do they have a patient call in number? Can you call and speak to a doctor or nurse about your symptoms or concerns you are having?
• Do they speak your language or will there be a language barrier?

Hospital affiliation. Is there a local hospital that you prefer to use for testing and admittance? Find out if the doctor you are considering works at the hospital you would like to go to.

Find out the area of expertise for the primary care doctor. The doctor may be a primary doctor who covers all areas, but they should have an expertise. Figure out what type of doctor would fit your medical needs before you decide. Do you suffer from frequent colds and coughing? Do you have chronic heart burn? Whatever your medical concern may be, choosing a doctor with that expertise will be beneficial.

Updated technology. Is the office and doctor taking advantage of updated technology? Make sure that the doctor you choose is working with the latest technology.

Most importantly make sure that you get along with and trust the doctor. Finding a doctor can be daunting; however, with some help and guidance you can find a provider who you not only like and trust, but who is an expert in the area of medical concern you seek treatment for.