Looking for a new medical clinic can be challenging, so it is helpful to have a guide on what to look for. Regardless if you are looking for preventative care or assistance with recurring medical needs, there are certain criteria that apply to all quality clinics.
Therefore, when you visit the various medical care facilities in your territory, use these tips to select the right one for you.
Verify Services
Some medical facilities clearly state if they specialize in particular services, but others may advertise in more generic terms. Verify what care is provided and if any required medical equipment, such as Carefusion ventilators, are available on-site. Do not assume a clinic can provide the care you need, and ask specific questions from the outset.
Interview the Staff
Skip the formalities of an official interview and make a friendly call or visit instead. By stating your intentions ahead of time, the staff can be prepared with information that pertains to new clients, and perhaps they can show you around the premises. This is an optimal time to evaluate the personnel for professionalism, friendliness and clinical knowledge.
Financial Policies
There are no standards when it comes to financial policies, so make sure you get a clear understanding of each clinic’s payment requirements. Identify which facilities accept your healthcare plan or if a sliding-scale is offered for self-pay patients. The more you know ahead of time, the fewer surprises you will experience after an appointment.
Identify the Practitioner Type
Our modern healthcare system is made up of a variety of practitioners, ranging from naturopaths to physician assistants to doctors specializing in particular issues. If the type of practitioner makes a difference to you, be sure to look for this information on the clinic’s website or ask the office staff for assistance, as credentials are not always easy to understand.
Call a Friend
When you visit various medical facilities, call a friend to join you. Having another set of eyes and ears is invaluable, and your friend may notice details that you overlooked. Additionally, as someone who knows you well, your friend can evaluate the clinics based on your specific needs, ensuring your well-being and overall health come first.
Ask People in the Community
Whether it is co-workers, neighbors, friends, or family, ask around and see what medical clinics people are frequenting or avoiding. There is nothing quite as powerful as verbal referrals, so listen to what the community has to say about the healthcare facilities in your area and take their opinions to heart.