How do I research a doctor? - General Health Message Board

mel1977 · 02-13-2005, 12:19 PM

How do I research a doctor? I am moving back to my home state and would like to find a new dr to take over my care as soon as possible. WE move March 1 and I was hoping to get some info on my list before I start making phone calls. I have just had a back fusion so... I appreciate any help!

Marie55 · 02-13-2005, 02:52 PM

You can find out about doctors from the American Medical Association. Usually gives the medical school they went to, their speciality, age, etc. Your state medical board should have a list of doctors who have lost their licenses or been reprimanded. Texas has this available.

Word of mouth about doctors can be good and not so good. Everyone has their own idea as to what a doctor should be like, bedside manner, knowledge, etc. However, word of mouth can let you know of some things that would not be acceptable.

If there is a medical school in area you will be moving, check and find out if doctors who are professors at the school are accepting patients. I found an excellent orthopedic surgeon this way.

mel1977 · 02-13-2005, 04:52 PM

I grew up in the city we are moving to, and know of many drs b/c of my profession and b/c I have had back surgery already that was done in 2002 there. I have a list of what my insurance will let me see and though I know of six professionally, they are a bit old and I also don't know if I need to see neuro or ortho. Anyway, yes, there is a huge medical school there and all of my five of six surgeries were done there-I got my dr by word of mouth after telling others what I was looking for. I struck gold and now I have to LEAVE darn it! So I can just go to the AMA and pull names off my list? I hope it works. I appreciate your help. I visited the University's website but couldn't get any detailed info so I emailed two of the drs and hopefully they'll email back, though I highly doubt it. I appreciate your help!

zuzu8 · 02-17-2005, 10:26 AM

Mel,

Here is a very useful link for you to research doctors' profiles (no charge!) by individual state... (preapproved by moderator 1):

[url]www.healthcarechoices.com/profile.htm[/url]

zuzu xx