Regardless of the reason for needing to visit an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), whether it’s an annual checkup, pregnancy care, PCOS, or menopause questions, you want to see a doctor you are comfortable with—someone who is a good fit with your personality and meets your needs.
Navigate the Healthcare System
Understanding and navigating the healthcare system to determine which providers are in your network. If you have insurance, the first step is to identify what doctors are within your network in your area. Learn whether you have Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) because they differ in how and what they cover. Other forms of healthcare in the United States include Medicare and Medicaid.
Accessibility
When picking an OB-GYN consider where their location. Is it an area near your place of employment, since you may have to make appointments during work hours? Do you prefer for your doctor’s office to be closer to home? Is it easy to get there? Is public transport accessible? What is the parking situation? Insurance websites allow you to look up doctors within a specific mile radius of any zip code, which will help you decide on the best doctors within your proximity.
Check for Good and Bad Reviews
Once you’ve made a list of doctors that are within your network and a perimeter that works best for you, it’s time to look at reviews available on the practice and the practitioners. If you know anyone who is a patient at any of these practices, such as friends or coworkers, ask them to tell you their thoughts on the doctors and if there is a specific one they recommend. Apps such as Google Maps, neighborhood apps (Nextdoor, Ring Neighborhoods, and HOA apps), and social media apps are great places to look for reviews on doctor’s offices.
Consider What Hospitals They Have Privileges
Doctors have privileges in one or more hospitals in the areas near their practice. Learn which hospitals they are. This can influence you because some hospitals are not in network, you may have strong opinions about a specific hospital, or you may not live near the hospital if the practice isn’t close to home. If you need a procedure or will need pregnancy care, it is essential to consider how easy it will be to get to and from the hospital and how quickly you’ll be able to get there.
Look Up Their Certifications
In addition to having a certification of MD or DO in obstetrics and gynecology, doctors can have certifications in subspecialties. Some examples of subspecialties to consider are Gynecologic Oncology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, and Complex Family Planning, among others.
Get a Feel for the Practice
Truly, you won’t know if a doctor and a practice are the right fit until you go in for a consultation and meet them. Not only do you meet with doctors, but in some practices, general care is handled by nurse practitioners and physician assistants. You also want to feel comfortable with the front desk and how they engage with you as well. Lastly, if you are looking to expand your family and would like to work with a midwife or doula, consider a practice that has either on staff.