When to Switch Care Providers

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

11 Jul 2006 02:17 PM

Finding a care provider is one of the most important decisions you will make regarding your pregnancy. It's important to have a provider who shares your philosophy about pregnancy and child birth. It's important to have a provider who you feel comfortable with and can talk to easily.

Sometimes you may start off feeling good about a provider, but later realize you made the wrong choice. You don't have to stay with any doctor or midwife if you aren't happy. If necessary, you can make a change.

Signs it May be Time for a Change:

* You feel your doctor doesn't answer your questions or provide information regarding your pregnancy.

* You don't feel involved in your care.

* You want more choices in where/how you will deliver your baby.

* You don't feel comfortable with the hospital or birthing center.

* The doctor's philosophy and your own aren't compatible.

* There isn't good communication.

* You don't have trust in the person.

You may want to bring your concerns to the doctor's attention before making a change. Sometimes differences, such as lack of communication, can be rectified. Others may not be able to be fixed, such as a complete difference in philosophy. In this case, a change may be necessary. The only way to know for sure is to have a conversation with the doctor.

If you plan to make a switch, it's better to do it as soon as possible. Sooner is better than later. Call the officer of the provider you are thinking of using. Find out their policy for accepting new patients. Some won't accept a transfer very late in the pregnancy. Others will take you, provided you have been receiving care all along. Find out before you leave the current practice.

Check with your insurance company. Make sure your insurance covers the new provider. Check to be sure you won't incur more charges by switching. This may depend on how far along you are in your pregnancy. You want to investigate this prior to making the change. In the end, the most important thing is to have a provider who will provide the kind of care and birth experience you want.

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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