As much as you want to establish a long-term relationship with your primary care physician (PCP), there may come a time when you have to make a tough decision to switch to another one. It could be driven by a change in your personal circumstances, repeated disappointment, or a realization that your health outcome would be better off with another doctor.
If you’re now standing at a crossroads, wondering whether you should consider changing your current primary care physician, below are some signs it’s time to mull it over.
#1 Your PCP Has No Regard for Your Time.
If you always find it difficult to get an appointment with your PCP, or you never seem to get past their answering machine, consider this a sign to switch to someone you actually get to see.
Similarly, if you get an appointment only to get stuck in the waiting room for an hour or more, then you might want to start finding a new PCP. Long wait times can seem negligible if you know you’re getting the care you expect, but waiting for an hour just to get seen for less than 10 minutes should have you looking for a PCP who respects your time and treats you like a person—not a number.
#2 Your PCP Doesn’t Properly Coordinate with Other Doctors.
If you have a chronic medical condition, you likely need to work with your primary care physician and specialist. Your PCP should keep your record updated and share it promptly with your specialist whenever requested. If this is not the case with your PCP, it’s time to work with one who is invested in your overall health journey—not just in the aspects they’re a part of.
#3 Your PCP Doesn’t Communicate Well with You.
Poor communication with your PCP can come in a variety of forms:
- They blurt out answers before you even get to finish explaining your situation.
- They don’t maintain eye contact with you
- They don’t thoroughly explain your diagnosis and treatment options.
- You don’t feel comfortable with them or feel like you can be transparent with them.
- You don’t get the opportunity to ask them questions.
If you feel you’re unable to have a discussion with your PCP in which you and they end up on the same page, they may not be the right fit for you.
#4 Your PCP Has Poor Bedside Manner.
Your PCP might have recommended treatments that have worked wonders for your health, but if they’re condescending or rude, you deserve to find someone who is not only good at what they do but also makes you feel comfortable and respected.
Reliable and Caring Primary Care Physicians in The Bronx, NY
At Starling Diagnostics, our board-certified primary care physicians are best known for not only their expertise but also for their professionalism, reassuring and compassionate approach, and commitment to providing the highest quality of care. Working with one of our PCPs means you’re in the hands of a highly qualified medical professional who is genuinely invested in your overall health and well-being.
To arrange a visit with one of our PCPs, give our staff a call at (718) 319-1610, or complete this appointment request form.
