How to Find a Great Dermatologist

One of the most important things you can do in terms of your eczema treatment is to find a dermatologist that is willing to be a strong advocate on your behalf. You’ll find that once you find the perfect doctor, your experiences with the healthcare system and your medical care will greatly improve. For many eczema patients, this can be a trial and error process. Below, you’ll find a guide that will make the process of finding a new dermatologist a little less complicated.

Where can you get the best recommendations?

Start off by asking your family, friends and primary care physician if they have any recommendations for a new dermatologist. Your doctor will likely provide you with a list of preferred specialists. However, I recommend following up with the referrals from your circle. They’ll usually connect you with the best fit as they already know you and your needs well.

Does the doctor work with your insurance?

Once you’ve found the right dermatologist, it’s important to make sure that their office accepts your current health insurance plan. If not, you’ll have to go back to square one unless you are fine with paying a lot of out-of-pocket expenses. There are two simple ways to figure this out. Either call up the prospective doctors office and ask, or call up your insurance company. I’ve found the latter to be the best way as their list of medical providers is always up to date.

Does their medical experience include eczema?

It’s always a good idea to do some research on your doctor’s medical experience. Did they graduate top of their class at a renowned medical school? Or did they just scrape by at a regional one? To learn more, check out their bio online. Information regarding their educational background is standard along with their residencies, associations, accomplishments, and areas of focus.

How do you know when it isn't working?

Have you ever had an appointment where it felt like the doctor was rushing you out of the examination room? If you have, then you know it leaves you feeling unheard and excluded from your treatment plan. We all know that communication is key in all aspects of life, but this proves to be particularly true when it comes to your health. Be sure to establish a line of two-way communication early on in the relationship. If it doesn’t stick, it might be time to move on.

How is the administrative and nursing staff?

Just as it’s important for you to have open communication with your dermatologist, it’s equally important to also share an open line with their office staff. When all parties are on the same page, any complications with insurance or your health care seem to go over much more smoothly. In order to build rapport and strengthen my relationship with my doctor’s office staff, I like to frequently thank them for all that they do, especially if they are going out of their way to assist me. Not only is it a nice gesture, but I’m sure they are happy to know that their efforts are appreciated.

Follow this guide and your search for a new dermatologist will be a breeze!