Red Bluff Daily News Special Publications
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Best Methods for Selec ng a Physician When it comes to your health, you want a physician that understands you and will be there for you whenever you need them. Finding a personal physician is an im- portant step toward a healthier lifestyle. The best physicians offer you a cooper- ative relationship in an effort to monitor your health. They provide creative solu- tions to health issues, as well as inform- ing you about basic information. Here are some elements to consider when you are searching for a new doc- tor. INSURANCE Often, your choice of doctors will be lim- ited by your health insurance carrier. In- surance companies have contracts with individuals or group practices. It is highly likely that you cannot go outside of your insurer's provider network without paying an additional fee. Your primary care doctor should be able to understand your medical needs, as well as offer you appropriate referrals should you need a specialist. It is possible that using a doctor outside your insurer's primary care network may subject you to out-of-pocket expenses. Some insurance carriers do not impose restrictions on your choice of physicians. If you have this kind of policy, look to your local newspaper or online adver- tisements to find potential doctors in your area. MEETING YOUR NEEDS Experts recommend selecting a general practitioner to serve as your primary care physician. This profes- sional might be an inter- nal medicine doctor or a member of a family prac- tice. Under some circumstanc- es, it is better to select a doctor prac- ticing within a particular specialty. Women might feel more comfortable with an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/ GYN) as a primary care physician. A pediatrician might be the primary care physician for children. Seniors could even have a geriatric specialist for their primary care physician. ASK FOR REFERRALS Friends, family and other trusted sources are the best way to find a new doctor. People will gladly give referrals when they have had positive experiences with their health care providers. They will also provide feedback when the experience was not to their liking. The American Medical Association or other professional physicians' organiza- tions in your area will be another useful resource. Prior to making a final decision, always confirm that your physician has a current license to practice with the state medical board. This licensing body will also tell you if he has any pending disciplinary action or complaints. Not every doctor accepts new patients. Once you have collected a list of possible physicians, contact them to make sure they will accept new patients, as well as the insurance you carry. Ideally, your first visit will include a rou- tine physical examination and docu- mentation of your medical history. But sometimes insurance carriers will decline payment for routine exams. CONVENIENCE Convenience is another important factor when choosing a physician. His or her office should be easily accessible from your home or workplace. Ensure the doctor has admitting privileg- es at your preferred hospital in the event you need treatment. Ask where your physician can perform diagnostic tests and procedures. Some doctors might use a separate facility rath- er than their own offices. Finally, inquire how long it usually takes to book an appointment. When an emer- gency arises, you will want to know that your new doctor can meet you quickly. Frontier Village Family Health Center, Inc. General Family Practice • Hepatitis B & C Treatments • Internal Medicine • Infectious Disease • Women's Health • Sports Physicals & Well Childs' Jagraj S. Nijjar, M.D. Board Certified Internal Medicine/Infectious Disease James Pearson, PA-C Family Practice Christina Loeliger, FNP Family Practice/Women's Health Edward R. Wargo, MD Emergency Medicine Walk-Ins Welcome (530) 528-7650 645 Antelope Blvd. Ste 24, Red Bluff, CA Now Open Saturday NOW WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS