Choosing a Medical Service Provider

Choosing the right medical service providers for you and/or your family is not always an easy task. Medical expenses can take a big part of your monthly income, so you should always go with the providers that are not only dependable but fit your budget. Here are the basic things to consider when choosing the best medical services that are right for you.  

• Costs– Be aware of when they want payments and how much you will need to pay if there is need to use a doctor, hospital, specific medical service or a specialist that is out of the plan. Search around to choose the best provider according to your needs and budget. Ask about payment plans, discounts (senior, veterans, etc.) and other payment assistance if you are worried you cannot afford the service.  
• Location– You should consider the nearest location for your convenience and ease of access to your home, work a relative/friend, public transportation, etc. 
• Specialists/Type of doctors – Some general physicians can’t treat specific medical conditions. Some specialists include, but are not limited to: 

• Family physicians 
• Dentists 
• Dermatologists (dealing with the skin) 
• Pediatricians 
• Gynecologists (dealing with the health of the female reproductive system) 

• Surgeons 
• Psychiatrists 
• Neurologists (dealing with disorders of the nervous system) 
• Radiologists  

• Availability– Avoid having to wait months to get a doctor’s appointment for a regular checkup, if possible.  

• If keeping your family physician is a priority, are they included in the insurance plan as a preferred provider and if not, what is the cost as an out of network doctor? 
• Do they offer emergency and hospital care and if so, what facilities are in network for your insurance and if the facility is out of network what are the other options? 
• How are referrals to specialists handled does the medical provider coordinate directly with your insurance and the specialist or will you need to do this? 
• Are regular physical and health screenings included or will you need to find a separate provider? 
• Additional services- Consider what additional services covered in the plan in which you are interested. This is a great way to ensure that you get the most from the provider for you and your family. Some additional services include: 

• alcohol rehabilitation  
• mental health care 
• medical counseling  
• home health services  
• getting medical certificates for the workplace