3 Tips for Choosing a New OB-GYN

If you’re moving to a new city, pregnant, or just need an annual checkup for your women’s health matters, you’re looking for a special type of doctor. Choosing an OB-GYN is an important health care decision for a woman. You need a practitioner who can both meet your present and future needs as your body changes.

First things first, determine if you need a gynecologist, who specializes in women’s health, or if you need an obstetrician, a doctor specializing in pregnancy. An OB-GYN handles all pregnancy stages in addition to general womens' wellness. Whether you’re a woman looking for gynecologist or an expectant mother seeking an OB-GYN’s care throughout your pregnancy.

Evaluate your insurance

Checking to see what your insurance does and doesn’t cover is step No. 1. Review your policy and ask questions if you’re unclear about any part of your coverage. To get the most benefits, and pay the lowest out-of-pocket amount possible, choose an OB-GYN within your network.

Of course, you need to evaluate their experience, background, and the hospital as you choose your practitioner, but try to mitigate costs to your best ability. Neonatal bills add up quickly, especially if there’s a complication with you, or your baby that requires an extended hospital stay.

Do your homework

Pregnant women visit their doctor once a month during a pregnancy, and as often as every few days during the third trimester. Research local hospitals and keep the driving distance manageable to avoid any unnecessary stress. Also, evaluate the hospital’s standards, because they’ll be the ones handling your tests, treatments, and the delivery of your child.

Use social media, and ask friends and family for referrals. Remember that choosing an OB-GYN is a highly personal decision. Your sister’s doctor might be an excellent fit for her, but incompatible with you. Also read patient reviews, and evaluate the hospital’s statistics for various conditions and procedures.

Something else to consider is unique health conditions that might make you a high-risk patient. Older expectant mothers or women with diabetes or heart disease benefit from finding a OB-GYN specializing in higher-risk pregnancies. This situation is a time when you might consider going out-of-network to get the best care. In fact, insurance companies can even be persuaded to grant coverage for out-of-network doctors specializing in high-risk obstetrics if you qualify.

The doctor’s attitude

Choose a gynecologist you’re comfortable communicating with. Not all doctors are warm and caring. Some handle patients in a short, blunt manner. Ask yourself if that’s the type of communication style you want from someone managing your reproductive health.

Evaluate even the office space. Is it warm and cozy with a canvas print or two hanging on the walls, comfortable chairs in the lobby, and drinks for visitors? You want to feel at home here, especially since you’ll visit often throughout your pregnancy and general wellness routine. During your first visit, ask the doctor questions that are important to you, and learn if you and your physician share the same values.

• What areas are your expertise?
• What’s your approach to women’s health care?
• How long have you been practicing?
• Can I have a doula or a midwife present during the birth?
• Under what situations would you induce labor?

If you feel like you haven’t found the right fit, don’t be afraid to make an appointment with another OB-GYN. Place a high value on finding the right match. Your gynecologist is a key member on your medical team, so do the research and choose the best fit for you.