When to Break Up with Your Doctor
There may come a time when it becomes clear that your doctor is not providing you with the best possible care. Leaving your doctor can be difficult, especially if you have built a relationship with him or her over a long period of time. But for your own health and well being, the break up is something you must do.
Dr. Samantha Collier’s five tips will help you know when it’s time to move on.
- Your physician does not return your calls in a timely manner, or isn’t following up with you as discussed.
- You can’t get an appointment when you need one.
- You feel like your physician doesn’t care about you. A few signs may be: he or she isn’t listening, isn’t taking the time to answer your questions, allows frequent interruptions during your visit, or dismisses your complaints.
- You feel like you can’t trust or be honest with your physician.
- Your physician received a disciplinary action/sanction from the state medical board.
As a courtesy, send a letter to physicians notifying them that you are changing physicians. You do not need to explain why.
Make sure to get a complete copy of all of your outpatient medical records, including all physician notes, tests, x-rays, biopsies, and any other relevant medical information in your file.