How to Choose a Medicare Doctor

Looking for a Medicare Physician can be a difficult task. Here is a list of doctors who are all seemingly good doctors, but you need someone right for you. Someone who can see you for a common cold and who will be there for you through the stresses of prescription drugs and medical devices.


So how do you choose a Medicare doctor?


Choosing a doctor can be as simple as calling or going to a place nearby and asking if they take Medicare. If you have someone in mind speak to them, and they can let you know if they take your insurance. To find out exactly what your Medicare insurance covers you can contact them yourself.


The Medicare website can walk you through the process if you need to find a doctor near you. If you feel lost on the website, read the frequently asked questions for assistance. There you can find the physician compare tool, which will allow you to compare different doctors in your area. Doctors listed in the physician compare tool fully accept Medicare patients, so you pay less out of pocket.


What to Look for in a Medicare Primary Care Physician


Once you know who accepts Medicare in your area you still have a decision to make. Which physician will you choose? Think about the qualities you want most. Find someone you can be open with and that will be easy to get to.


Choose a physician who takes your insurance and/or Medicare


First, be sure the doctor does accept all your insurance. Some providers may take Medicare but does not accept all their payments. If they don't take your insurance, be prepared to pay out of pocket to cover the rest of the costs.


Choose someone near your pharmacy


America is the number one consumer of prescription drugs and medical devices in the world. So chances are you will need to visit a pharmacy after visiting the doctor. If they are both close by it could save you travel time and give you the ability to fix any problems.


Choose a provider near your home


People miss 60 million days of school and 50 million days of work because of the common cold. Meaning a doctor visit is common for most people. Try to find a way not to have to take a long trip to the doctor when you have to visit.


Decide if you are comfortable with a male or female doctor


Everyone has their own reasons for deciding to visit a male or female doctor. Understand that this choice will ultimately depend on location and if the doctor you want takes your insurance. Be open with your doctor if you are uncomfortable and what could help make a situation less awkward for you.


Find someone you feel you can trust


With that in mind, as long as you feel like you can talk to your doctor you are in good hands. If you don't feel comfortable sharing, you may want to consider finding someone else.


A doctor's office whose hours work with yours


You may love early mornings, but your doctor is usually available during the afternoons. That won't work for your schedule. Try to find a doctor that you will actually see. You don't want to see other physicians and care providers.


Finding the perfect doctor that checks all the boxes may not be possible. So consider what is most important to you and choose those first. If you chose a primary care physician you still have options if you feel you need to choose another specialist later on.