There are several ways to be sure you always get good medical care. Because medical care in the U.S. seems to be getting worse and worse, I would remember these points. They could make a difference in your life. Be sure that any doctor you chose is the best one you can find. Remember if a doctor friend suggests an M.D., be sure he or she is not just a golf or gym friend. I would check the doctor's website and read any references and see if there have been any malpractice suits. Be sure he or she is an M.D. not a DO, a DC, or DNP. The latter is not an M.D. but a nurse practitioner with a doctor of nursing degree. If you are a physician don't try to be your own M.D. for important problems. Also, you know your body better than anyone else, so if an M.D. does not listen, find another one.
Be willing to pay for the best medical care you can afford. HMOs use lots of nurse practitioners and physician assistants. They try to limit care from specialists and decrease a doctor's pay if he or she makes too many referrals. Do some preparation before you go for an exam. Think about what you want to say and write down the questions you have. A friend makes a copy of her questions for the doctor and gives it to the physician. Take along a list of medications you take and also make notes about what the doctor tells you. If you don't understand something, ask for clarification. Never let a doctor or the staff intimidate you.
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