8 Reasons to Consider Choosing a New OB/GYN

You should feel comfortable and safe with the healthcare providers you see regularly. Having trust in the judgment and experience of a doctor or other healthcare professional is an important factor when considering diagnoses and treatment plans. When you don’t have confidence in the doctor/patient relationship, then you may avoid seeking necessary medical attention. If any of the following scenarios apply to you, consider choosing a new OB/GYN.

1. Your Questions and Concerns are Dismissed

This is one of the most pressing reasons many women consider choosing a new doctor of any specialty. A good healthcare provider will listen to your concerns and answer all of your questions. If you don’t feel your doctor is taking you seriously, then how can you trust them to make the right choices for your care? Having your questions and concerns dismissed as unimportant is a sign that you need to seek out a new care provider.

2. You Have Concerns About a Treatment Plan

If your doctor is insistent on a course of treatment that you aren’t comfortable with, then you might want to seek a second opinion. And if your OB/GYN is committed to something you don’t feel right about, it might be a sign you need to look for a new provider.

3. You Have a High-Risk Pregnancy

Some OB/GYNs are more qualified to care for women with a high-risk pregnancy. If your current doctor does not have experience with managing anything other than normal, low-risk pregnancies, you should consider choosing a new obstetrician. As the Mayo Clinic points out, some women with high-risk pregnancies will need specialized testing like targeted ultrasounds or amniocentesis, so take that into account during your search.

4. You Feel Uncomfortable Being Open With Your Current Doctor

It can feel awkward sharing personal details with a doctor, especially when it comes to gynecological issues. Being a bit timid as you get to know your doctor is one thing, but if your doctor doesn’t make you feel comfortable enough to share details about symptoms you’re concerned about, then they won’t be able to diagnose or treat you. Finding a doctor you feel comfortable with is a good reason for choosing a new OB/GYN.

5. Your Current Provider Does Not Communicate With You

Just as you need to communicate with your healthcare provider, they need to have open communication with you in return. They should be able to explain what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. That means educating you on exams and tests you might need as well as any suggested treatments. Also, if they are impossible to contact or unresponsive to messages, then you probably won’t feel confident in their ability to care for you. 

6. You Want More Comprehensive Care

You might have started seeing your current doctor for a specific problem that they have in expertise. But now, you want an OB/GYN that can give you more full-scope care. If this is the case, find an OB/GYN in Burlington, NC that offers comprehensive care. A practice that has physicians, registered nurses and certified nurse-midwives on staff is more likely to provide you with a variety of services.

7. They Have Privileges at a Certain Hospital

If you’re pregnant or expecting to need in-patient gynecological surgery, you may have a hospital preference. You may like the facilities or staff at one hospital more than another, or certain hospitals may be out-of-network for your insurance plan. So, before you commit to an OB/GYN you should check where they have admitting privileges.

8. Your Insurance Has Changed

Maybe you’re happy with your current OB/GYN but you have new insurance or your provider network is changing. If you do not want to pay out of pocket to keep seeing that doctor, then you’ll need to find a new one. Many practices will be in-network for most of the plans offered in your area, but a few may not be. 

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At Kernodle Obstetrics and Gynecology, we provide comprehensive care for women in all stages of life. As a DukeHealth practice, we offer gynecological care, well-woman care, midwifery services, and maternity care. We have a staff that includes experienced physicians, registered nurses, and certified nurse-midwives committed to developing positive relationships with patients. We prioritize evidence-based care with shared decision-making and open communication. If you’re looking for a new OB/GYN in Burlington, NC, then call us at (336) 538-2367 to schedule an appointment.