What Makes a Good Family Doctor?

Once upon a time, family doctors diagnosed many things. From sniffles to rashes, one doctor handled it all. But the days of seeing the same family physician each time you go to the doctor's office have changed. Now most physicians work in a group setting and you may choose one doctor as yours or your child's, but you'll likely see many different docs within the group throughout the years. And the days of a family doctor treating a spread of ailments has also changed. Now expect a referral to a specialist for that rash or knee pain.

A new study suggests that all these referrals are costing folks more money. The study found that patients of physicians who provide a wider range of services had fewer trips to the hospital and incurred lower health care costs. Makes sense. I'd think it's also fewer claims for an insurance company to process, which seems like it would also save some time and money in the health care industry, not to mention simply helping a patient and striking out another trip to a different doctor's office.

I remember after having my son, I had a terrible sinus infection. I hadn't seen my primary care physician in years because I'd been healthy and then during my pregancy had only seen my obstetrician. When I called to make an appointment, I couldn't get in at all! It was like my record had been wiped and because I hadn't been seen in such a long time, they recommended I go to urgent care. That moment stuck with me as poor patient care, but since then the group effect seems to make it easier to see a doctor in your doctor's practice at least even if you've not been seen in a long time.

My takeaway from this study find a good doctor, one that is available and willing to discuss issues beyond sniffles and stomach bugs. Having a doctor who takes time to do comprehensive health evaluations and can make a smart referral when needed. Finding the doctor that's a fit for your family can take time. With that in mind we asked local parents to nominate their favorite doctors in our Mom-Approved Docs list. These doctors are nominated by parents, and only parents … no pay to play here. And if you think others need to know how great your family doctor, pediatrician, OB/GYN or other specialist is, nominate him or her to be a part of the Mom-Approved Doctors list. We are accepting 2015 nominations through May 31.