I often hear people say that they don't like one of their doctors, but they don't know how to change or how to find a better one. There are some wonderful doctors, but I certainly agree there are some who seem just interested in money, are poorly trained, or seem to have no interest in your medical problem. If a doctor doesn't sit down to take a history, do a good examination and really listen to you, then I would find another doctor, as soon as possible.
If you are in an HMO, a concept that bothers me, you are restricted to a certain extent because you have to chose a doctor within their network or group. However, even in an HMO no patient should put up with poor or inadequate care. If you have a problem finding a doctor within the HMO, you can try to make an appointment with the CEO, find an advocate to help you, or write a letter. At the bottom of the letter, if you have tried everything else, you can always say you plan to consult an attorney. That always gets attention.
If you have good insurance, I would do a lot of networking to find a good doctor, or ask a doctor friend. Be sure the doctor friend actually knows how another doctor practices and is not just his golf buddy. To change doctors, you need to write a letter to the office manger of the M.D. who has been your doctor and request your medical records be sent to the new doctor you have chosen. Then check within a week or so to be sure all your records, incuding X-rays have been sent.
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