If you want to find a primary care physician, medical specialist or dentist, Christiana Care Health System is pleased to offer this guide to choosing the doctor you need. Here are tips on everything from finding a doctor to evaluating the treatments you receive.

Call 302-623-CARE or toll-free 800-693-CARE for free referrals to area physicians, specialists or dentists and also gain access to:

• The most extensive directory of doctors, specialists and dentists in the greater Delaware area.
• A complete listing of who accepts your health insurance coverage.
• Quick phone connection to doctors' offices, if you request it.
• Current information about doctors', specialists' and dentists' education, board certification and office locations and hours.

Give potential choices a thorough check up.

• If you have a network insurance plan, such as an HMO or PPO, is this doctor a member?
• What hospital(s) is the doctor affiliated with?
• Is there a location convenient to your needs?
• Is the office near your home or place of work?
• What are the office hours and how long does it usually take to get an appointment? How are bills/payments handled?
• What is the doctor's educational background? Is he/she board certified? How many years has the doctor been practicing?

Assess physician care.

Follow these American Medical Association Guidelines to evaluate the treatment you receive.

• Is the practice managed well?
• Is record-keeping accurate?
• How long do you have to wait in the waiting room?
• Does the doctor spend adequate time with you?
• How are emergencies handled?
• Does the doctor have provisions for emergency care after hours?
• Will the doctor see you without an appointment if you have an emergency?
• Are you happy with the treatment you received?
• Does the doctor spend enough quality time with you to assess problems?
• Are physical examinations performed to your satisfaction?
• Do you have plenty of time to describe symptoms?
• Does the doctor explain the diagnosis?
• Does the doctor prescribe treatment in terms you can understand?
• Do you feel comfortable calling the doctor to ask about medication side effects or to report a change in your condition?
• If you need specialized care, does your doctor explain why, and refer you to a specialist?

Do your part to ensure quality care.

• Bring your medical records from any previous doctors on your first visit.
• Update your doctor on any prescription or over-the-counter drugs you're taking and any symptoms you're experiencing now or have had in the past.
• Ask the doctor about anything you don't understand, such as a diagnosis, medication prescribed or treatment options.
• Follow your doctor's instructions, exactly.

For more information . . .

If you need more information finding a doctor or just want information on community health services, call (302) 428-4100 or toll-free (888) 428-4100. Our Health Resource Representatives are here to help.