5 Signs That You Should Switch Physicians

Interacting with medical professionals can either be a pleasure or a pain. Waiting around in offices is something none of us want to do but engaging with a doctor who addresses our concerns and takes the time to listen to us is a real privilege.

So, how do we manage when we have doubts that our health issues are not being addressed as efficiently as possible? Here are a few signs you should look for when wondering if it might be time to switch physicians.

1. Time

It’s given that we may have to spend at least some waiting time in the doctor’s office. Things can get busy; certain patients can take up time that doctors may not be able to anticipate. But, when it comes to waiting up to an hour every time you see your physician, there may be something wrong.

Not only is time spent waiting to be considered, but the physicians use of your time is a major factor in deciding if they are good for you or not. Is your physician taking the time to answer all of your questions in each session? Do you feel you are being rushed through your appointment? These are things you should address when deciding on physicians.

2. Information/Explanations

If your physician is not explaining their diagnoses to you thoroughly or in language you can understand, it may be time to switch. Your physician should explain their opinions on your conditions or answer your questions in ways that satisfy you, and that you can grasp quickly.

Furthermore, your physician should never keep you in the dark about anything. If you feel they are not relaying all the necessary information to you or answering your queries properly, then you may want to consider ending your professional relationship.

3. Communication with Other Health Care Professionals

When it comes to your health, you want your doctors to all know each other and to be in communication. If your emergency physician is not interacting with, say, your psychiatrist, you may want to consider bringing up the point. If they are hesitant or don’t seem to understand or hear you, it may be time for change.

4. Manners

Though this may seem unimportant, it is actually essential to your happiness that your doctor is well mannered and polite. If they are interrupting you without apologizing and act in dismissive matter, you may find yourself losing trust in your doctor.

5. Reaching Them Outside Hours

In the case of an emergency, you want to be able to reach your physician to ask for assistance or advice. Though voicemails or business cards often include cell phone numbers or other contact information, if you try these contacts and still find yourself in the dark, you may want to consider moving to new physician.

Physicians should open a variety of communication channels with their patients via e-mail, telephone, or even Skype, making themselves available for your needs.

Though it may be awkward or feel unsafe and scary, switching physicians can lead to a general improvement in your health. If you identify with anything listed here, or even just feel uncomfortable or unhappy around your doctor, it may be time to consider a move