Finding the right family doctor who fits your personality and needs and sticking to them is key to a healthier lifestyle. But sometimes circumstances change, and you might need to find a new doctor.
Whether your current doctor is retiring, you are moving to a new job in a new city, or you are just not as satisfied with your current family doctor as you would like, switching doctors can feel like a time-consuming and stressful task. To help you make the best healthcare choices for yourself, these family healthcare providers in Northwest Indiana explain when and why you might want to consider switching to a new doctor.
Here’s when you might need a new family doctor
There are several reasons why you may need a new family healthcare provider. It may be time to switch if you are moving to a new area far from your doctor’s office.
Sometimes, you might even need a doctor who practices a different field of medicine. For example, if you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with a chronic condition, you would need a doctor who specializes in treating those conditions. Other times, you just might not be happy with your current doctor. If you feel like you are always being rushed, your doctor is not really listening to you or you find it hard to get an appointment, it might be time to look elsewhere.
Know that in order to make the right healthcare choices, you need to feel informed about your health. So, if your current doctor is not helping you understand your health conditions or treatments, you need to find someone who does.
How can you change your family doctor?
You should ideally find your new doctor before you leave your current one to make sure there is no gap in your health care. Check your health insurance to see which doctors near you take your insurance and if they are accepting new patients.
Once you have found your new family healthcare provider in Northwest Indiana, ask your current doctor’s office to transfer your medical records. Your new doctor will need thorough and accurate records of you and your family’s medical history, so don’t overlook this step.
When you first visit your new family doctor, you will be asked to fill out a new patient form and answer questions about your medical history, family history, allergies, etc. This is so that your new doctor can attend to your health needs right from the start.
There is an emotional side to the process of finding a new family healthcare provider in Northwest Indiana. But there is also a lot of paperwork. You have probably spent a long time building a doctor-patient relationship with your current doctor, so you want to be sure this change is the right decision for your health.
Before you decide that you want a new doctor, consider the reasons. If they are good enough to warrant a change, follow the tips we mentioned earlier to find a new doctor.
Looking for an Affordable Family Healthcare Provider in Northwest Indiana?
Are you considering switching your family doctor? If so, and if you’re ready to meet with an affordable family healthcare provider in Northwest Indiana, you can find the doctor you trust at 219 Health Network. We have several providers on staff who can offer the specialized care you need. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to schedule an appointment.