Finding the Right Gynecologist

by Elizabeth Faden

Sep 22, 2009

Finding a qualified gynecologist is essential to a women’s health, but the process of selecting the right gynecologist for you can be very tricky. Here are a few questions to consider when you are looking for a gynecologist, some that everyone asks, and some that you may not have thought to ask!

(1) How much will it cost to see the gynecologist?
If you are insured, the first step is to see whether the gynecologist you have in mind is considered in-network. If he or she is, the cost of an office visit should be no more than your co-pay. If you are not insured, or if your gynecologist is not covered, you can speak with the physician’s office and find out how much they generally charge. Keep in mind that doctors will often work with you and lower their prices if they know you are uninsured.

(2) Is the gynecologist qualified to meet your specific needs?
Before picking a gynecologist, consider your own needs. Different gynecologists will be better suited for you depending upon your age and medical history. Are you approaching menopause? Do you have a history of cancer? These are important factors to consider when selecting a doctor, as some may have specializations that may be helpful to you. Additionally, consider speaking with the gynecologist about their philosophies on your particular needs. For example, feel free to ask doctors about their opinions on hormone replacement therapy and complementary medicine.

If you do not believe you have any specific needs, it is still a good idea to find doctors that well trained. Find out how long a doctor has been practicing, and whether they are board-certified.

(3) What gender do you prefer?
The key to a good experience with a gynecologist is comfort. You have to be comfortable with your physician. Often, many women have a preference about their gynecologist’s gender. Some women are more comfortable having a women treat them, while others prefer male doctors. There is no right answer. It is purely a matter of preference. But remember that it should be your preference and not what your mother-in-law or friend prefers.

(4) Where is the gynecologist’s office located?
The gynecologist’s office should be close to either your home or work. Consider when you would see the doctor. Would you make an appointment before or after work, or during your lunch hour? Remember, finding a gynecologist that is located near you increases the likelihood that you will actually make it in to see your doctor. It cannot hurt if your gynecologist provides convenient parking either!

(5) Is your gynecologist also an obstetrician?
A gynecologist is a Medical Doctor (M.D.) that generally specializes in women’s health. Many, but not all, gynecologists also practice obstetrics, which is the specialized care of pregnant women. If you are in the process of picking a gynecologist, and you plan on having children in the future, it is important to think long term. Consider selecting a gynecologist that practices obstetrics. It is much easier to continue the relationship you have with your gynecologist once you become pregnant. However, to obtain the best care possible while you are expecting, it is important to find an obstetrician that is board-certified and that has experience in the delivery room.

(6) How difficult is it to see the gynecologist?
Make sure that you pick a gynecologist that can see you when you need. Many gynecological offices are booked out for several weeks, and sometimes months. Some gynecologists have nurse practitioners on staff that may see you for quick visits. But consider whether you would be more comfortable seeing the doctor instead. When you call the gynecologist’s office, ask whether they are available weekends and after office hours? Will the doctor be available in case of an emergency?

(7) Is the gynecologist attached to a particular hospital?
Some gynecologists have connections with particular hospitals. If you prefer a particular hospital in your area, ask whether your doctor is attached to that hospital. There are benefits to seeing a gynecologist with an attachment to a large hospital, especially since the doctor may have admitting privileges to that particular hospital. However, nowadays, many doctors are attached to multiple hospitals. This means that they may have to run back and forth between the hospitals, decreasing the amount of time they have to see you.