Ditching your doctor in favour of a new one is not a choice that people ought to take lightly, but there may be a time when doing so is the best decision you can make for you and your health. You might have some ongoing problems with your doctor, or you might have had one bad experience, like a missed diagnosis or a dismissed health concern. Here’s how to know when it’s time to find a new Doctor.
When Your Style’s Don’t Mesh
You don’t need to agree with your Doctor on everything, but it is important you are able to work effectively together. Think about what you want from your healthcare. If you feel more comfortable with someone with a warm bedside manner, then you should leave a Doctor who is distant and formal. Make sure they offer the services you want, like online booking or bulk billing doctors. A mismatch here is nobody’s fault, but a good reason to move on.
When You Don’t Feel Comfortable
Doctors need to know a lot of intimate details about your life, body, and health that you might not feel comfortable sharing. If you don’t feel able to tell them these intimate details, then you are not a good match. If you feel uncomfortable with their decisions and recommendations, this is another good reason for switching to another doctor. Perhaps their manner isn’t right for you, or you would prefer to see a specialist in your condition.
Watch out for medical mistakes too. For example, if your Doctor prescribes a medication that you are allergic to, and you know that information is in your medical records, then it’s time to go elsewhere.
When Your Time Isn’t Respected
If you always seem to sit in the waiting room for an hour, only to be rushed through your appointment, this is a poor sign. You should never feel as though you are being rushed.
If you feel that your doctor doesn’t have time to answer your questions or address your worries, then there’s an issue. If your doctor is always late and always in a rush, find a new one.
When You’re Kept In The Dark
Your doctor should always be open with you and clear when they explain why they are recommending treatment or a test. They should talk you through all the results of any tests. If your doctor can’t explain things to you in a way that you understand, then this is a bad sign. Your doctor should be careful to use terms you understand, rather than confusing you with medical jargon. Your health is important and you have a right to feel informed about what is going on with it.
Remember that what you have with your doctor is a relationship, not a business transaction. It’s important that you trust and feel confident and comfortable with them and their abilities. If you don’t, don’t feel bad about asking for a second opinion or changing to a new Doctor.
