In the words of Carl Jung, “Medicines cure diseases, but only doctors can cure patients.” This statement rings true in today’s society. Although hospitals and healthcare facilities are readily available for all kinds of ailments and complaints, patients need credible physicians to address their medical needs.
Unfortunately, there have been cases where patients were harmed due to poor service and negligence from practitioners. Even more frustrating is when these victims had to bear the financial burden. For such reasons and beyond, choosing the right practice and physician becomes a top priority.
This guide explores the top-most factors to consider when making this decision.
Qualifications and Expertise of Healthcare Professionals
There’s no better feeling than knowing the people who can help you medically are educated and up-to-date on the latest advancements and treatments. You know you’re in good hands if your physician is board-certified and has years of experience practising in the field. It is therefore important to choose a medical centre that hires only trained and licensed medical practitioners. Such individuals would most likely possess:
- Advanced degrees, such as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), and Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (MSPAS).
- Board certifications like American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM), and American Board of Surgery (ABS).
- Licenses from the appropriate regulatory authorities in their respective jurisdictions to prove that they have met the minimum requirements and standards to practice.
A good rule of thumb is to research and verify their credentials to determine if they are on par with industry standards.
Affiliations with Reputable Health Organizations
Although this factor isn’t mandatory, it’s a plus to see your chosen medical centre has solid partnerships with recognized medical institutions. Such connections provide benefits like robust professional networking, credible research and publications, quality assurance and recognition, access to innovative training programs and resources, and subsidized medical care.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Having a good public image has merit but one should experience it firsthand to guarantee the quality of care their medical practitioner offers. Past and current patient reviews and testimonials give a taste of what the healthcare provider has in store.
While they are generally available on the establishment’s website, you should also search online for additional assessments on trusted medical review sites to get a more unbiased and credible outlook.
Range of Services and Specialties
This quality removes the burden of looking for different medical centres to treat varying conditions. While its absence is not a deal breaker, it remains a top priority for those who seek a one-stop shop for all medical services tailored to their specific needs and budget.
A reputable medical centre should offer everything from preventive and wellness care to surgical and diagnostic procedures. In addition, it should be capable of handling high-level emergencies that demand a more serious and urgent response.
Patient Safety Record and Infection Control Protocols
Infection and preventable medical errors account for many mortality and morbidity cases. To reduce the risk of harm, injury, or infection, healthcare centres and professionals are required to implement the right policies and protocols. This entails maintaining high levels of sanitation to prevent cross-contamination from patients to staff or other patients.
Before putting your health in their hands, check the reputation and record of the healthcare centre to gauge their infection control measures and medical quality.
Proximity to Home or Workplace
While this factor might be insignificant, it plays a significant role in patient satisfaction. A comfortable commute from your home or workplace ensures you can get there quickly in the event of a medical emergency or the need for frequent visits. You’d want to avoid any delays that may extend your treatment to a later date.
Your options are almost unlimited if you’re located near a hospital or medical facility. Still, the medical centre’s reputation should be your guide.
Accessibility Features for Patients with Mobility Challenges
Although a “close-to-home” healthcare centre may spell convenience, it may lack the right provisions for those with limited mobility. Depending on their level of impairment, patients may require additional support while waiting in a queue, walking to and from the facility, and getting out of bed.
A good medical centre would design a space that is accessible to all, including:
- Wider doors and handrails in the corridors
- Elevators for easy movement between floors
- Ramps, lifts, and special access for patients confined to wheelchairs
- Emergency medical equipment such as wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, stretchers, and medical defibrillators
These features apply to seniors, patients with mobility issues, and children.
Technology and Facilities
Today’s fast-paced world requires medical professionals to constantly up skill and adopt new technologies that guarantee quality patient care. This requires investing in state-of-the-art facilities and devices such as a pharmacy or in-house diagnostic centre, diagnostic and imaging equipment, digital clinical information systems, electronic medical records, and telemedicine platforms.
A hospital with access to these implements offers two-fold benefits: You can get advanced medical treatments that are rarely available elsewhere. Plus, it streamlines administration, allowing your doctor to provide you with the best medical care.
Insurance Coverage and Affordability
Healthcare services come with a price tag. With the rising costs of medical care delivery, you wouldn’t want to pay an arm and a leg for your treatment. Fortunately, some hospitals offer various packages and payment plans that accommodate different needs and budgets. They also cater to medical insurance, which allows patients with valid insurance cards to enjoy substantial discounts on treatment costs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right medical centre can be daunting, but the factors discussed in this guide will help you narrow down your options. It begins with conducting research, evaluating patient reviews and ratings, and visiting a few facilities. If you plan on using insurance to cover your medical expenses, you’d want to confirm with your provider that the medical centre you’re considering is included in its network of approved practitioners. With all concerns on the list checked, you’ll finally find the right place to pitch your tent.