Why You Should Consider a New Doctor

It isn't too late to try something new and it is never too late to take an interest in your health. Modern medicine has made incredible advancements, so the last roadblock any person needs is a doctor. It could be that medical breakthroughs, new medicines and medical procedures are hitting doctors and the public too fast to keep up. However, some doctors and some patients, are still living in the past. Just as the day of the house-call has met an end, so should a poor patient-doctor relationship. As in any relationship, if crucial needs aren't being met, it may be time for a change.

A doctor that doesn't take time to listen and consider your concerns deserves a gallon of his/her own medicine -- don't go back. Remember, this is not a friendship, this relationship is not only important to your health, but you are paying for services. If your doctor doesn't take your concerns seriously, quickly dismisses it, or gives a rash diagnosis, he/she is not only displaying a lack of consideration for your health, but it also taking your money without meeting your expectations for service. This is not like tipping a waiter in a restaurant even when the service was horrendous -- this is quite different because potential for harm to you is amplified. This is also true when second opinions are warranted. Although going through the trouble of getting a second opinion is often a hassle, particularly if your doctor appears offended by your wishes to do so, remember that your health is more important than someone's ego.

A doctor that hastily writes prescriptions is a pill. Despite the upside, the blessings of our medical system, there is a downside. Americans are using medications to cure everything, and this is manifested by the many commercials for prescriptions that cure everything from shyness to E.D., as it is so fondly known. Medications have their place, but overuse limits our inherent ability to handle some issues on our own. It is okay to ask about alternatives to taking medications, as changes in diet and other behavioral habits could be effective as well. However, if you've barely described your symptoms and your doctor has already written several prescriptions, consider seeing another doctor.

This tip is likely not for everyone, but you may find it important to see a doctor who is open to alternative medicine. Alternative medicine can be vital when there are no other options or when the detriments of a mainstream medical therapy outweighs the benefits. A doctor who is open to the use of alternative medicine can only increase your options for medical care.

Perhaps more important than anything else, a doctor whom you can befriend is a doctor to stick with for life. As mentioned previously, the doctor-patient relationship is not a friendship. It is more than that. However, being friends with your doctor and having a relationship outside of the examination room inevitably means your doctor will truly be concerned about your health and well-being. Perhaps the best breakthrough of all will be the one that enables all doctors to truly have concern for all of their patients such that they seek the best treatment available in every case -- the treatment they would opt for themselves if the roles were reversed.

Finding a good doctor will require work. Seek referrals from friends and family who love their doctors, interview your new doctor (remember, he/she is your paid hireling), and even try networking among doctors. Your health is worth the work.

Give it a try. You just may find it will change your life.