While good doctors must have remarkable medical skills, they should also possess other essential characteristics. The better your relationship with your physician, the better your overall health will be. On the other hand, feeling unsure about your doctor’s ability can decrease the quality of care you receive.
Not all of the following examples indicate that your doctor is incompetent, but MarketWatch warns that they may serve as signs of questionable medical care. When recognizing these signs, consider seeking out a second opinion from another medical professional.
Your doctor does not take a conservative approach
A conservative approach means that doctors will try other treatments and procedures before jumping to things like surgery. While this might not apply in every case, it is usually a good practice because surgery carries risks of its own. When doctors are quick to recommend surgery without pursuing any other avenues, you may take it as a red flag.
Your doctor pressures you into treatments
Most illnesses and medical conditions have a range of effective treatments. Doctors should discuss these treatments with you and explain why they recommend one over the other. Physicians should not pressure you into taking one specific treatment when you express reservations, as this puts undue stress on patients.
Your doctor does not listen to what you have to say
During exams, you should have your doctor’s undivided attention. This entails listening to what you have to say, taking your concerns seriously and answering questions clearly and concisely. When doctors do not make time to listen to patients or dismiss their concerns as unnecessary, it limits their ability to provide proper care. These behaviors may make you feel uncomfortable about bringing up issues in the future, which can also negatively impact your care.