Senior News Line: When it’s time to change doctors

Now and then — not too often, but sometimes — you hear that audible click and come to the realization that you need to change doctors.

Maybe it’s because once again you don’t feel like your doctor is really listening to your concerns. Maybe it’s because once again tests are ordered without you getting a clear explanation about why they’re necessary.

Maybe it’s because your health concern doesn’t seem to be getting better. Maybe it’s because you see the physician assistant when you expect to see the doctor. Or, maybe it’s just because you have a gut feeling you should go elsewhere.

Whatever the reason, if the time comes to make a change, it won’t be easy if you’ve been with your current doctor for a long time.

Your first step, once you’ve decided to do this, is to “interview” another doctor. You’ll need to call around to see who’s taking new patients or inquire among friends for recommendations.

Then check out the doctor online with reviews by other people. Look at www.healthgrades.com. Or, do an online search with the doctor’s name.

Be sure the doctor is in your insurance network and make an appointment. Go in with a written list of questions and make notes.

When you find a doctor you’d like to see in the future, you’ll need to have your records transferred from the old doctor.

And that’s where I part company with advice I was given. I’m told that it’s best to transfer your records to a new doctor before you go to the first appointment. You’ll need to decide for yourself.

My preference was to meet the doctor first before records were transferred and to not let the current medical practice know I was leaving until I was certain.

If you find the right doctor, the difficulty will be worth it.