Several people have contacted me recently. They want to change doctors, and want to know if there are any specific steps they should take to make the transition go smoothly.

There are many reasons someone might want to change doctors. Practices close, families move, insurance contracts change, or sometimes we just have a feeling that another doctor would communicate better, respect us more, or partner with us more effectively.

There are two aspects of such a change; leaving one doctor, and finding a new one. Here are some steps to help you leave a doctor:

• If finding a new doctor is your choice, and not mandatory, then make sure there are other doctors who can help you before you leave. Some doctors do not take new patients. Others will not take Medicaid patients. Specialists are booked months in advance.
   
• Schedule one last visit with the doctor you are leaving. Ask for a status report on current and recurring health conditions. Take someone with you, and take notes, if possible.
   
• Ask for copies of all medical records that relate to any current or chronic problems you have suffered throughout the past five or six years. Doctors’ notes, test results and other information will be useful to your new doctor. In New York, you may be charged up to 75 cents per page, although many doctors will not charge you for current information, perhaps as far back as a year. You may be asked to put your request in writing. Expect to receive those records within 30-60 days.
   
• You do not owe your doctor an explanation about why you are leaving. However, you may decide to share the reason to make the transition smoother. For example, if you are moving to another town, your doctor may be able to make a referral.
   
• Finally, if you are leaving because you are dissatisfied with your care, and you are brave enough to do so, respectfully and politely tell your doctor why you are leaving. Sharing will help her improve her service and may also be cathartic. You’ll be helping future patients.
  
  Share this information verbally, write a letter, or find a copy of a doctor’s report card you can fill out to send to your doctor at: http://diagknowsis.org/reportcard/index.htm .

Next column, we’ll talk about meeting with your new doctor.

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For more comprehensive information on changing doctors or complaining to doctors, find articles at the About.com Guide to Patient Empowerment.

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Trisha Torrey is Every Patient’s Advocate^TM.
She offers no medical advice, but empowers those who
want to learn more about diagnosis and treatment options by
providing useful tools and resources.