5 Questions for Your New Doctor

Beginning in 2014, many people will be forced to see new doctors - thanks to the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”). Establishing a good relationship with your doctor is a key aspect to staying in good health. “Asking questions opens the dialogue,” says Matthew Bernard, chair of family medicine at the Mayo Clinic. Bernard adds that patients should always feel comfortable asking questions. Here are five questions to ask any new doctor:

1. What are your office hours?

If you have a busy schedule, find a doctor that offers evening, early-morning or weekend hours to accommodate your agenda. It’s also a good idea to inquire about the average wait time when seeing the doctor and how far in advance you need to make an appointment.

2. Who will be seeing me if I have an emergency?

The Affordable Care Act means thousands of people will be entering the healthcare system and adding to doctors’ already-heavy patient loads. Thomas DeBerardino, a sports medicine doctor in Farmington, Connecticut recommends asking who you will be seeing: a physician assistant, nurse practitioner or doctor.

3. What is the specialty of the doctor/practice?

Inquire about specialists in the office and if the doctor partners with others within the community. Ask what hospitals the doctor or practice is affiliated with and which specialists the doctor uses when needed.

4. Do you use electronic medical records?

Electronic records make it easier to transfer doctors and for specialists to communicate with each other. While you shouldn’t write off a doctor that doesn’t use electronic records, it’s something to take into account when picking a provider. If an office does use electronic records, be sure to inquire about the security.

5. How long until I can expect test results?

Limit confusion when it comes to getting test results and other medical information. Doctors in general want to know as quickly as you want to know. If the patient expectations are set up front, it saves a lot of phone calls.