Updated March 25, 2015.

In the “old days,” most people believed that doctors knew everything and never made mistakes. If your doctor told you your diagnosis and gave you the treatment for it, you would never question it or the outcome. These days, patients are savvier about their healthcare and view themselves as healthcare consumers. As such, they are looking for the best service, ideals that align with their own, and a satisfying experience with their physician.


Nonetheless, you may have had little past experience in this area, and may still be feeling intimidated and overwhelmed by the healthcare system. What should you be looking for when choosing a good doctor?

Things to consider as you get started:

• You may be referred to a specialist by your own primary care doctor. This is a good start, but don’t feel like you need to stay with them if you are not happy with the relationship
• Certain health plans may require you to choose from their list of specialists
• How long have they been in practice?
• What is their area of specialty?
• How many patients have they treated with your condition?
• Do they work on a team (might be easier to get in to see them) or solo (might have more continuity of care)?
• What hospitals are they affiliated with? Are they accredited?
• Is their office or clinic located close to where you live?
• What is their reputation? A good place to check for this kind of information is at support groups for your condition.
• Locate doctors that specialize in your type of cancer using The American Medical Association DoctorFinder service, or call The American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345

After you have had your first appointment with your new specialist, ask yourself the following questions to see if they were a good fit for you.

• Did the doctor seem to be listening to you and your concerns?
• Did the doctor speak to you at your knowledge level? Did they encourage you to ask questions?
• Was the doctor on time? Did they seem rushed during your appointment?
• Did you feel like you were being respected?
• Were they open to you bringing a support person to your appointments?
• Was it easy to get an appointment?
• How will you be informed of your test results?
• How do get in touch with the specialist when you need them?

Remember, it is not necessary to like your doctor. Some of my favorite doctors have very little “bedside” manner, but are excellent specialists. It is absolutely critical, however that you trust your specialist. They will be making many decisions during the course of your disease that will affect your outcome. During this time, your focus will need to be on fighting your cancer and getting better, not worrying about whether or not you are getting good care. If you feel like your needs are not being met, or if you wonder if you are getting good advice, it is okay to ask for a second opinion on your care.

_{Eyre, H., Lange, D., Morris, L. (2002) Informed Decisions- 2nd ed American Cancer Society: Atlanta, GA.}