A little advice, please

[Critters2]

I moved here a little over a year ago. The week I moved my mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor. So the next 7 months were focused on learning my way around here, and spending as much time as possible with my mom (a three hour drive away). Nothing else got done.

So, I haven't found a physician here, and need to. I've been having back pain (I have scoliosis) and some odd "women's symptoms". In Iowa, I lived in a town with one doctor--a truly wonderful woman osteopath. I need to find a doc here. And I'd like a woman osteopath, again, based on my experience there--though I'm more concerned about "woman" than "osteopath".

So, any advice about choosing a doc? There's a clinic here with a bunch of doctors, including women, but I'm told they don't like you to ask for a specific primary care doc...they kind of assign you one as docs have openings. I don't really like that idea.

There's a woman with her own practice in a building that looks sort of run-down (which may or ma not mean anything) and no one I ask knows anything about her reputation, though she has a website that says she's board certified in family practice.

So, what did you look for in choosing a primary physician? Any thoughts will be appreciated!

[Ohio Joe]

1. I've lived in a number of locations

NJ, NY, CT, MA, and now OH and have always gotten referals from friends/co-workers regarding doctors in the area.

[Critters2]

2. People here are very traditional

No one I know goes to a female doctor, and can't figure out why I want to. Even the women. They just don't see any issue. So, they keep telling me about the good male docs, but don't know a thing about the women. And I'm pretty insistent on a woman--I've never even had a gyn exam by a man in my life, and since my biggest health issues are gyn'l (endometriosis and fibroids) a woman matters to me.

[Ohio Joe]

3. One other thought

There are a number of online resources that will give you background information (disciplinary actions, customer feedback, degrees, etc.) but they cost (about $9-$15). I hope that helps, it is really all I can think of. Good luck !!!

[Critters2]

4. Thanks! I've found some websites with info

I appreciate your thoughts!

[flvegan]

5. I asked friends and coworkers for recommendations.

My allergist is also my pcp, thanks to my girlfriend at the time.

I'd probably not let the appearance of the building lead me away from what might look to be a good doc. Maybe she's saving the money that a big, fancy office would cost...or stuck in a lease.

Good luck, anyway!