How to Change Doctors

A person chooses to change doctors for reasons that include moving to a new location, a change in insurance coverage or because the level of care is not up to par. Learn how to change doctors and find a caregiver who suits your lifestyle.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for a new doctor in your area. Call your insurance company and ask for a listing of doctors who are included in your network of providers. Visit the insurance carrier's website to perform a more advanced search. Find a doctor based on location, practice, hospital affiliation and specialty. Also look for doctors in the Yellow Pages of the phone book.

• 2

  Choose a doctor and call his office to see if he accepts new patients. Ask if he is contracted with your insurance carrier to ensure your receive full benefits. Have a list of questions ready about the practice including office hours, hospital affiliation, payment procedures and the doctor's general philosophy on patient care.

• 3

  Make an appointment with the new doctor. Once you have selected a new doctor and if you feel comfortable, contact your current doctor to let him know that you plan to change doctors. You might have to sign a form to authorize the office to release your chart to the new doctor. Cancel any future appointments you have scheduled with your old doctor.