health| care| karma

How to Know if Your Doctor Is The S.H.I.T. (Supportive Helpful Inclusive Transparent)

As a registered nurse (RN), I have seen firsthand the importance of having an empathetic primary care doctor (PCP). A good PCP can make a big difference in your health and well-being, but it’s important to choose one who is right for you.

Here are a few tips from a RN on how to pick an empathetic PCP:

1. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, and other healthcare professionals. People you trust can give you valuable insights into their experiences with different doctors.

2. Look for doctors who are board-certified in family medicine or internal medicine. This means that they have completed a rigorous training program and have passed a board exam to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

3. Read online reviews of doctors in your area. This can give you a sense of what other patients have experienced with different doctors.

4. Schedule a consultation appointment with a few different doctors before making a decision. This will give you a chance to meet the doctor in person and see if you feel comfortable with them.

5. Pay attention to how the doctor interacts with you and their staff. Are they respectful and kind? Do they seem to care about you as a person?

6. Ask the doctor about their philosophy of care. Do they believe in a patient-centered approach? Do they value shared decision-making?

7. Consider your own needs and preferences. Do you want a doctor who is direct and to the point, or someone who is more gentle and patient? Do you need a doctor who speaks a specific language or has experience treating a certain condition?

From an RN’s perspective, here are a few additional things to look for in an empathetic PCP:

• Do they listen carefully to you and ask follow-up questions?
• Do they explain things to you in a way that you understand?
• Do you feel comfortable asking them questions and expressing your concerns?
• Do they seem to care about you as a person and your individual needs?
• Do they involve you in decision-making about your care?
• Do they work well with other members of your healthcare team?

It is important to find a PCP who is a good fit for you both personally and professionally. An empathetic PCP can make a big difference in your health and well-being.

Here are a few additional tips from a RN:

• Don’t be afraid to switch doctors if you’re not happy with your current one. It’s important to find a doctor that you feel comfortable with and who you trust.
• Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and your care. You have the right to ask questions and to get the information you need to make informed decisions about your health.
• Build a relationship with your PCP. This will help them to get to know you and your individual needs better.

Your PCP is a partner in your health care, so it’s important to choose one who is right for you. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding an empathetic PCP who will provide you with the best possible care.