“Education is a powerful weapon. In medicine it can save your life.”
Robert Arnot, M.D., The Best Medicine.

* What type of doctor does your child need?
Does your child need a primacy care doctor, a specialist for ongoing care, or a specialist for a single consultation such as a second opinion?

* What type of practice do you prefer?
A doctor in solo practice or a two doctors in partnership or a large practice?
A multi-specialty practice or a group focused on only one specialty?
A hospital or a community based clinic?

* What type of relationship would you like to have with your child’s doctor?
Someone who makes the decisions for you and determines the plan of care?
Someone who lets you make all of the decisions?
Someone who makes decisions with you.

* What Philosophy of Practice do you want the doctor to have?
A doctor who treats aggressively, one who is cautious and conservative or someone in between these two types of practice?

* Narrow your list down to a few names
Your insurance company may determine this. Friends, other health care providers and members of your support group may be good people to ask. But remember that what works for one family may not work for you and vice versa.

* Evaluate and Verify the credentials of the candidates.
Where did the MD go to medical school? Where was residency completed? Did she do a fellowship after residency? How long has it been since he has completed his residency? Is he/she board certified?
Several web sites can help with this step in the process:

** Maldives Medical Council: www.maldivesmedicalcouncil.gov.mv (no website now 20070426)
** American Medical Association Physician Select: www.ama-assn.org (click Dr. Finder)
** American Board of Medical Specialties: www.certifieddoctor.org
** Medical College of WI Physician Find: www.doctor.mcw.edu/

* Interview the doctor(s)
See Questions to Ask when Choosing a Doctor

* Make a Decision