6 Steps for Switching Physicians

• Consult with friends, family, and other medical professionals.
• Don’t rely ONLY on internet ratings.
• Check the doctor’s affiliations.
• Give a heads-up so they expect a records request/ask to transfer records.
• Give feedback.
• Make a “get acquainted” appointment.

Do doctors treat you differently based on insurance?

Many people say they get treated worse by doctors if they have little insurance coverage or public plans, such as the Oregon Health Plan. In a study by Harvard researchers, patients in California were twice as likely to report discrimination based on insurance than based on race.

What do you do when you feel like your doctor isn’t listening?

Here are steps you can take if your doctor isn’t listening to you

1. Be honest about how you are really feeling. When the doctor says “How are you?” how do you respond?
2. Set clear goals and communicate them. Take some time to consider what you want to get out of this appointment.
3. Ask the Right Questions.
4. Find a new doctor.

What should I tell my former doctor when I switch doctors?

Decide what to tell your former doctor, if anything. When switching doctors, you need to decide whether your reasons for leaving are worth explaining. If you’re leaving your doctor because you were unhappy with his or her services, it’s okay to express this.

What should I ask before I see a new doctor?

Get copies of all medical records for the past several years, especially those relating to current or chronic problems, so your new doctor has access to notes, test results, and other useful information. (Ask whether your new doctor’s office will take care of this. Many do.)

When do you need to change your primary care doctor?

Whether you’re moving to a new city, transitioning from pediatric to adult care or just think it’s time for a change, at some point you will likely have to switch your primary care physician. And with a little preparation, that transition can be simple and easy for both you and your new doctor.

How can I find a doctor that accepts my insurance?

Make sure your doctor accepts your insurance plan. You can call the office and ask or you can check online. Oftentimes, you can even find doctors through working with your insurance company. This is a great way to assure your coverage is accepted.