Notice These Signs, And It’s Time To Switch Your PCP

Here’s a suggestion from the physicians; No wild guesses while picking a doctor. The physician-patient relationship is a whole different experience. Do not let it get ruined by picking the wrong physician or ignoring the red flags. Do your research, take help from negative reviews, and check the doctor’s credentials and board certification. 

There is a list of things that you need to be mindful of when picking the right PCP for yourself. Look out for the following red flags:

Less Responsive Front Desk

The only access to your appointments and the doctor is at the front desk. The front desk handles your medical records, appointments/follow-ups, prescriptions, and several other duties. Therefore, the front desk team should be highly-professional, attentive, and helpful. Not being greeted on arrival or being informed about the doctor’s availability can be signs that the front desk team is unprofessional. 

Similarly, a bad attitude while answering your questions or helping with prescriptions, referrals, and lab results is also a bad sign. Since the doctor takes responsibility for his/her staff, poor staff behavior means that the doctor is not showing much concern. Though he/she has the option of hiring a proficient virtual medical assistant, who can also handle medical billing services effectively, in case of the absence of qualified in-house staff, a poor medical assistant and front desk team indicates a red flag. 

Once or twice may be acceptable, but if you notice a pattern over time, do not risk your care and switch your PCP at the soonest. 

Affiliation With Drug Companies Representatives

If you, by any chance, find pharmaceutical logos, writing pads, posters, or any other items, the only explanation for it is that the drug company representative has been to this clinic or hospital. They would have left drug samples to the doctor. 

Though some doctors claim to remain unaffected by these visits by drug company representatives, it is not always true. Some physicians accept that this factor can cloud objectivity and change prescription choices. However, a lot of doctors have discontinued the practice of meeting with pharmaceutical salespeople. Thus, if you find any signs of a recently-visited drug company representative, your doctor might still be accepting freebies from these companies. Go ahead and change your doctor. 

Compromised Patient Privacy

Most doctors strictly obey Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This limits the access of patients’ health records to authorized personnel. However, breaches have continued to some extent. This has affected the healthcare industry and patients greatly.

Patients sign the standard HIPAA release form before picking a doctor. This form explicitly defines the boundaries that how the doctor can use and share the patient’s health information.

The form clearly states: 

“THIS AUTHORIZATION DOES NOT AUTHORIZE YOU TO DISCUSS MY HEALTH INFORMATION OR MEDICAL CARE WITH ANYONE OTHER THAN THE ATTORNEY OR GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY SPECIFIED IN ITEM 9 (b).”

HIPAA does not allow the disclosure of the patient’s information to individuals not listed by the patient. Moreover, doctors cannot speak about patients in public. They are not permitted to leave paper-documented or virtually entered information unattended. Paper documents must be shredded. And there’s a lot more. 

Such a crucial stage of medical practice cannot be taken lightly. If you see your doctor not following the rules, you know the next step. Your information may not be safe. Switch your doctor. 

Fails To Pass The White Glove Test

At times, you may be too focused on your health problem and miss the minor yet obvious that point towards the red flag. These details can critically affect your care. They may include dusty furniture or a dirty lab coat. This indicates less attention to cleanliness. 

The current setup of a medical institute is a combination of both digital and papered documents. However, a doctor must keep them organized and safe. They must be given the required attention. Sloppy desks and racks can be easily a place for misplaced notes and documents. 

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Absence Of Eye Contact 

A doctor-patient relationship is of mutual respect. It would be a red flag if you notice that your doctor does not look you in the eye. Eye contact is a sign that the doctor is listening to you. Moreover, it shows that the doctor views you as a person and not the next patient in a row. Do not be just another patient. Get the treatment you deserve as a patient – if not from your current doctor, then from another. 

Making The Problem Psychological Instead Of Looking For Actual Cause

Some health problems are obvious and need a straightforward solution, such as skin injuries. But, patients may sometimes have other concerns. A good doctor will always listen to your concerns and give you a rational explanation for them along with diagnosing them. Others might just skip it by saying that it is in your head. 

The red-flagged doctor tries to associate issues of their patients, mostly female patients, with stress. Contrarily, these problems have a medical explanation, and they are actual, medical, and evidence-based. Your issues should not be dismissed. Make sure your doctor does not brush off your concerns like this. Otherwise, find yourself a new doctor. 

Find a New Healthcare Provider with EHR Reviews

If you've noticed any of the warning signs that it's time to switch your PCP, it's important to find a new doctor who can provide the care and support you need. One helpful resource for finding a new healthcare provider is EHR Reviews. This online platform offers a wealth of information and reviews from real patients, so you can make an informed decision about your healthcare. Don't wait to make a change if you're not getting the care you need - visit EHR Reviews today and find a new PCP who can help you stay healthy and happy.

Takeaway 

There is never a rush while choosing your doctor, neither are you bound to stick with one. You should feel safe and supported by your doctor. If you find any of the above points is true in your case, talk to your doctor. And, if the output remains negative, switch your PCP.