Start Early

The best time to choose a doctor is when you don't need one. Don't wait until you or a loved one is faced with an illness or emergency to begin looking for a doctor. This only adds stress to the decision-making process and increases the chances of making a choice you are unhappy with.

Many people often seek advice from family, friends, or coworkers about the right choice for a doctor. These are certainly good places to start and are often the most reliable and readily available sources. A number of other sources can further broaden your search.

• County, state, or national medical societies. Many may have phone referral or information centers, and many have Internet information sites.



• Web-based searches for board certified doctors are available at the American Board of Medical Specialties or call for verification (866) ASK-ABMS.



• Various referral agencies can help.



• Many community hospitals have "Find-a-Doctor" referral centers.