Gynecologists - Some Great Tips to Choose a Good One

Gynecologists - Some Great Tips to Choose a Good One
When it comes time to select a new gynecologist, due to a move or a change in insurance, a woman needs to take time to choose one that will work well for her. There are a variety of items to contemplate such as location, philosophical compatibility, specialties and whether gynecologist

Specialties: Gynecologists often have specialties such as infertility, oncology, or obstetrics. If you are having problems getting pregnant, you'll want a physician who has extensive knowledge in infertility. If you or a blood relative has had uterine or gynecological cancer, it's a good idea to be teamed up with a doctor who has expertise in oncology. If you're planning to become pregnant, you'll want a doctor who includes obstetrics in their practice.

On the flip side, if you definitely don't plan to have additional children, you might want to select a physician whose practice is limited to gynecology so that you won't have to compete for appointments with timeslots that are taken up delivering babies.

Insurance: You need to make sure that your insurance is accepted by a prospective medical provider. You don't want to be surprised by a big bill for care that you thought was to be covered by your health plan.

Philosophy: If you are interested in alternative health remedies and natural care whenever possible, you'll want to make sure that your prospective doctor shares your philosophies. An initial consultation would be a great time to discuss this.

Gender: Some women prefer a female doctor while others feel more comfortable with a male. Think about your own preferences and choose a new gynecologist accordingly.

Location: Think about how far you'd be willing to drive for your new physician and narrow down possibilities with a map in hand.

Availability: Many gynecologists have filled their practices and are no longer accepting new patients. Call before you go across.

Office Staff: When you call a physician's office, you get a good indication, by your first impression, of how the place is run. Is the receptionist helpful and patient? Or is she curt and cranky. Happy office staff often reflect a well run office.

Compatibility: Let's face it; you will be sharing some of your most intimate health details. Your gynecologist must be someone with whom you feel comfortable discussing your most private body parts and functions.

References: It always helps to have referrals from satisfied patients. Does this physician come highly recommended by friends or female nurses or family doctors that you know?

Office Hours: What are the office hours and do they align with times you'd be available to come for an appointment? How long is the average wait for an appointment? If they are too busy, it may be hard to get in. In case of an emergency, who covers for them?

Get answers to all of these questions and any others that may pop into your head as you are gathering information and you'll be well on your way to selecting the most appropriate gynecologist for you. After all is said and done, trust your gut instincts