Quandary over chosing a new PCP

[WLSResources/ClothingExch 3,444]

If only the endocrinologist who monitors my thyroid were also affiliated with my health plan as a primary, I'd be thrilled. As he doesn't, I asked if he'd recommend someone. He erred in giving me four names, each of which looked good on paper. When I saw him again several weeks ago, I asked him to simplify the field and mentioned some of the qualities that I want in a PCP. He named one of the four, but I can't recall which. He hasn't responded to the email I sent the other day.

It's one of two of the original four. Both meet my major concerns according to Yelp reviews by patients who give high ratings to their medical skills and attentiveness. Both are board-certified internists. One is also a board-certified geriatrician (gads) who, among other things, does EKG's in his office. The other is a board certified gastroenterologist. I have need for the basic EKG/heart-watch and I have some gastro issues for which I have seen a gastropod. I think I've gotten past my horror at the word "geriatrics." After all, I'm 67, past the pediatrician stage, and he's really an internist with some extra knowledge that I'm heading toward.

The internist/geriatrician is 51; the internist/gastropod is 62. It is on my mind that I'd prefer someone less likely to retire during my reign as his patient. The gastro is said to have a good sense of humor. The geriatrician-with-EKG-machine has appeal for the machine as well as his age; the PCP I want to quit is also a Board-certified cardiologist. If I go with the gastropod, I'd stlll need a new cardio doctor. He also has knowledge that pertains to WLS. If I go with the geriatician, he'd refer me to one should there be need.

Each has his pros in my estimation and I'm not sure that the cons and differences are especially significant. Shall I simply flip a coin? I hate that I'm making this so complicated for myself.

[Valentina 2,642]

Why not make a "get acquainted" appointment with each? It's done all of the time when one is "shopping" for a new MD, DDS, etc.

I would just ask for a "consultation" and go from there. Make a list of questions that you need answered and ask those same questions of each MD.

That's my opinion. I hope it helps a wee bit.

Good luck.

[Bufflehead 6,358]

Eh, I'd go with the one closest to my home or work and/or with the easiest parking.

[2goldengirl 2,076]

Really, it comes down to chemistry - which of them you feel you can best work with. for that, I recommend an initial appt. If the first one doesn't work, Try again. You can change your PCP monthly if you need to.

[lifeofblair 308]

I was having the hardest time finding a PCP. Finally found a NP that I really like and she works under internists, which makes me feel better about. I understand the decision process.

[WLSResources/ClothingExch 3,444]

Why not make a "get acquainted" appointment with each? It's done all of the time when one is "shopping" for a new MD, DDS, etc.

Really, it comes down to chemistry - which of them you feel you can best work with. for that, I recommend an initial appt. If the first one doesn't work, Try again. You can change your PCP monthly if you need to.

I've heard that people see/interview more than one doctor and then decide. I feel silly saying that I'm a little timid to call both offices and say that I'm calling for an exploratory appointment. Who knows if they'd even put me on the schedule? Well, there's only one way to find out. And, yes, that PCP-of-the-Month Club option is open. It's also why I see no sense in medical plans' PCP designation. When referrals from a primary were more commonly required, it made some sense. Now that referrals are rarely required, what's the point?

Eh, I'd go with the one closest to my home or work and/or with the easiest parking.

There's your brilliant, common sense again. This time, though, both are within a mile and a half from me and only six blocks from each other. They're also three blocks from the university medical center with which they're affiliated and where I do all my medical shopping (except for WLS surgery, which was at another university med center in town). The sensible transportation modes are foot, bus or taxi.

Where did the "Eh" come from? It sounds as though you're masquerading as a Canadian.

Thanks for the input, folks. I'll take care of it today.