The military provides complete medical and dental care for all its members and their dependents. From prescriptions and immunizations to hospitalization and complete annual physicals, it’s all provided. There isn’t any need to shop around for a doctor or dentist.

Once you make the transition, you’re on your own for these services. Let’s start with your doctor. If you are looking for a doctor outside the military system, ask family members, friends, and other health care professionals for the names of doctors they recommend.

Then find out the answers to some important questions. First determine if the doctor is accepting new patients. Ask if they offer introductory visits for people who want to meet before deciding on a doctor. If so, ask what you should bring with you to such a meeting and what the fee will be, if any.

Suggested questions when meeting:
** Where did they receive medical training?
** How long have they been practicing?
** Do they accept your health insurance plan?
** Is this a group practice or would you be seen by one doctor exclusively?
** Are they able to complete simple lab tests on site?
** What days and times do they see patients? How far in advance do you need to make appointments?
** What are their procedures for after-hours emergencies? Which hospital do they admit patients to?
** What is their philosophy for prescribing treatment or recommending procedures? Do they consider you a partner and work with you to maintain your health and well-being?
** Do they consider alternative treatment options such as nutrition, herbs, homeopathy, acupuncture, or chiropractic?

Choosing a dentist is much the same process. In addition to most of the same questions for a doctor, here are some suggested questions for your initial meeting:
** What is their philosophy for performing dentistry? For example, how do they determine whether to crown or simply fill a tooth?
** What subject has their continuing education been in recently? Do they keep up with current techniques?
** What is their specialty?
** Do they perform a thorough oral cancer examination of your entire mouth or just look at your teeth?
** Who are the specialists they would refer you to for work outside their expertise?
** How many dentists are in the office? How many staff do they have?

The more dentists that work out of an office, the more staff they need. This means they have a larger overhead and have to see more patients in order to pay the bills. This usually translates into less time for personal service because they need to hurry patients through. You’ll be better served by choosing a dentist that works alone or with 1- 2 other dentists in the office.

The front office staff is a direct reflection of the doctors or dentists they support. When you visit the office, take note of how the staff treats you.
** Are they helpful, friendly and attentive, or harried, tense and impersonal?
** Are the phones answered quickly and do they seem organized and professional?
** How easy does it appear to be able to make arrangements for payments and follow-up appointments?
** Do they respect patient privacy, or do they discuss details in front of the entire waiting room?
** Do the facilities look, smell and feel clean?

Your family’s new medical support team is important. Take time to choose them wisely.