If a metabolic process or hormonal imbalance creates a health problem beyond the scope of your primary care physician, you likely need a referral to an endocrinologist. This specialist diagnoses, treats, and helps to prevent conditions such as hypo- and hyperthyroidism, diabetes, osteoporosis, menopausal symptoms, and more.
How can you find the best endocrinologist for your needs? Here are five tips to assist you in the selection process.
Tip #1 Ask for Referrals From Your Primary Care Physician and Trusted Friends or Relatives
Your primary care physician can assist you with a referral to an endocrinologist best suited to your health needs and personality. You can ask friends or relatives who have needed the services of an endocrinologist in the past, too. Personal contacts will never recommend a doctor they were not satisfied with, and people you know can tell you details about the doctor, the office atmosphere, and the staff’s friendliness.
Tip #2 Check The Endocrinologist’s Credentials
Each doctor’s website should feature a biography section, which lists their focus of care (diabetes, for instance), education, board-certification, specialty services, and more. Also, you can read patient reviews through Healthgrades.com and investigate board certification through the American Board of Medical specialties (abms.org). Get to know the background, education, and experience level of each doctor through this research, then narrow down your list to the best ones.
Tip #3 Choose an Endocrinologist Who Is Easily Accessible
Do research on the location of each doctor you are considering. You will want to select a doctor that is close to your home or work, so that it is easy for you to get to appointments without having to get stuck in traffic for too long.
You should also check for parking availability or proximity of public transportation, such as train or bus stops, if applicable.
Tip #4 Check With Your Health Insurance
You will likely see your endocrinologist several times a year. It will be wise to select one that your insurance coverage will pay for. As such, make sure to check if the doctors you are considering are in-network and what, if any, copays you may incur. Verify this information with both the endocrinologist’s office and your health insurance carrier, so you have no financial surprises.
Tip #5 Consult Each Endocrinologist
Once you have narrowed down your list of endocrinologists using the first four tips, it’s time to meet each one. Book an in-office consultation, and bring a list of questions to ask regarding the office and doctor. Evaluate how well each doctor listens, answers your questions, and explains possible assessments and diagnoses. If you don’t like how the specialist and their staff treat you, it’s best to remove them from your consideration list. Your health is too important to risk with poor communication and care.
Excellent Endocrinology Care in Sarasota And Manatee Co
At Intercoastal Medical Group, we have four highly skilled endocrinologists on staff practicing out of our Beneva Professional Center and Lakewood Ranch II locations. To arrange an in-office visit, fill out our appointment request form. Or, call the location you prefer.To reach Beneva Professional Center, call (941) 379-1777, or contact the Lakewood Ranch II location at (941) 538-0077.
