What To Know About Choosing A Family Practice Physician

By Laura Gallagher


Treating families used to be a common medical specialty. Physicians that specialize in this type of care are trained in pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric care. More and more doctors are returning to this specialty and those that choose a family practice in Westland find the benefits are many. Here is some information on how to choose a doctor.

The best way to find a doctor or office that practices family medicine (FM) is via a recommendation. Check with family, friends and neighbors for names of FM practitioners. If this does not turn up results, turn to the web to find resources. Look for offices that specialize in this type of care, not just a general practitioner.

FM physicians will have an M. D. Or D. O. (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) degree. The doctor must complete a 3-year FM residency program in addition to their degree. They can then take a board certification examination. They then maintain that certification through continuing education and recertification.

Ideally try and locate 2 or 3 nearby doctors or clinics. From there it is a good idea to do a little background research on each. Each office or clinic should have a website outlining how they provide care for people of all ages. Here you should also be able to check the certification of the doctors and staff, and how long the office has been in practice. One can also generally find patient reviews online. This is invaluable information to check before choosing a doctor.

Before you call to make an appointment, make a list of questions. This should include reconfirming insurance and billing procedures, the office's policy on multiple members attending appointments, and cancellation policy. Reconfirming insurance is very important as doctors do change their affiliations regularly.

Using a Family Practice in Westland has a lot of benefits and can make appointments, billing and insurance claims much simpler. To find a good family practitioner, check online and ask friends for referrals. In either case be sure to do some research yourself to check background and experience of the doctors and staff.




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