I have had diabetes my entire life, and I am very thankful for the fact that modern medical discoveries have helped me live a happy, healthy life despite my disease. I have had to watch what I eat and take medications daily for most of my life, and while i used to feel like I was "missing out" when other children were able to eat sugary candy and I wasn't, I eventually learned that sugar-free candy tastes great. I am always keeping up on the latest diabetes research, and while researching, I have also learned about many other diseases and ailments and how they are treated and controlled. I know others are too busy to browse a bunch of medical websites, like I like to do, so I decided to start a blog that others can visit that contains information on a variety of medical topics all in one place!
Modern Medicine Saves Lives Every Day
How To Find A Family Doctor When There Is A Shortage In Your Area
For Content
It's not always easy to find a family doctor, especially when you live in a rural area or a city that has a shortage of qualified doctors. A lot of people who can't find their own family doctor rely heavily on walk-in clinics or even head to the emergency room if they need medical attention. There are a few ways to increase your chances of finding a family doctor, however, and it only takes a little bit of research.
Look in July
One of your best chances of finding a family doctor is to search for one in July. This is when new primary care physicians are graduating medical school and are looking to start their practices or join an existing practice. They will be looking for new patients and if you search for a new doctor at graduation time, you are more likely to find one. You can usually find new doctors through a university's department of family medicine, check with the American Medical Association or even check with the College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Check Online
There are now websites that offer patients looking for a new family doctor those professionals who are open to taking new patients. They often have lists of graduating students from different colleges and also existing, experienced doctors who are now accepting new patients. One of the more comprehensive lists of new and existing doctors accepting patients is located at the American Medical Association's DoctorFinder.
Teaching Hospitals
A good strategy to finding a family doctor is to head to your local or nearby teaching hospital and contact their family medicine practices. You will be seen by a resident doctor who is in training to be a family physician. If you begin seeing them as a resident at the hospital, it is possible you can be assured of a long-lasting relationship should you like the doctor you end up seeing. You also have the advantage of the hospital's resources should you need them and will have the opportunity to see multiple doctors until you find the right fit for your family.
Ask Family and Friends
In some cases, when you ask a friend or family member if their doctor is accepting new patients, they could potentially get their doctor to take you on. This is more likely if your friend or family member has been a long-term patient with the doctor and has a good relationship with them. It is possible to get the inside track if any of the doctors at that practice might be taking new patients in the upcoming months ahead of the doctor advertising for them as well.
Share