Experiencing problems with your ear, nose, or throat calls for a specialist like an ENT doctor. These doctors are also called an otolaryngologist. When you’re experiencing medical problems, finding the right doctor to care for you is essential. Follow these tips to find the right ear, nose, and throat dr for your needs.

Referrals

Start by asking your primary care provider for a referral. Your physician will know the doctors in your area. This is also important because some specialists require a referral before seeing you as a patient. You can also ask family members and friends if they can recommend an ENT doctor.

Affiliations

Doctors have specific labs and hospitals they are affiliated with. Patients who prefer a particular hospital should double-check affiliates before selecting an ear, nose, and throat dr. This ensures you’ll be able to create a healthcare team to address medical issues for continuity of care.

Insurance

It’s essential to ensure any practitioner you work with accepts your insurance so you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket for medical expenses. Ask doctors if they take your insurance when calling to make your first appointment. If they don’t, consider contacting your insurance company. Most insurance companies will give you a list of specialists in your network.

Location

Location is another essential factor to consider. You don’t want to find the perfect doctor only to discover that you must drive two hours away for an appointment. Driving long distances will require you to take an entire day off work and spend a small fortune in gas money. Instead, look for doctors that are close to your home or work.

Reviews

Previous patients are always encouraged to leave a review of their experience. Patients with a negative experience with a doctor will likely want to warn other patients to ensure no one else has a poor experience. Those with a positive experience will also want to let everyone know. Take the time to read the reviews and testimonials for a doctor before scheduling an appointment.

Personality

During your first appointment, take the time to talk with the doctor. Trust your gut if it's telling you that this isn't the right fit. Doctors should have an excellent bedside manner and always respectfully listen to what you say.

According to Becker's ASC Review, there are 12,609 otolaryngologists operating in the United States. Given these numbers, we understand finding an ear, nose, and throat dr can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. We accept various types of insurance and work with your needs to ensure you're getting the help you deserve. Contact Alpine Ear Nose & Throat today to schedule your first appointment.