Eight tips when choosing a new medical practitioner

First, ask your current provider if they know someone near your new area. Getting a good recommendation from an expert can help you make a choice with confidence.

Family, friends and neighbours in the area are also great sources of bias-free recommendations – and they may already know some of your personal requirements.

Ask another medical professional in the area for a recommendation. For example, if you’re looking for a doctor, you could ask the local pharmacist.

Once you’ve identified a few options, start by considering how accessible they are. How close is their location to your new home? Do their opening hours suit your needs? Are there parking spaces or public transport facilities nearby? And are their fees reasonable or prohibitive?

Find out if they can support any special needs you may have. Examples include requiring home visits, a specific language spoken, or a preference for a male or female practitioner.

Ask about their accreditations and their experience, to ensure they can provide the level of expert care you expect.

Check out their reviews online and on social media to get a sense of what current (or past) clients say about them. This shouldn’t be your primary driver, but it will aid your decision-making process.

Lastly, have an initial consultation to determine if you feel comfortable working with them. Clearly state your needs and requirements, and determine if they can meet them. Evaluate their premises and facilities to ensure they are a good fit overall.