If you are considering surgery, ask how often the surgeon has done the procedure. The more times the surgeon has performed the operation, the greater the chances it will be done expertly. Find out the hospital's success rate for your type of surgery. Compare the rate with that of other hospitals. A bedside manner.
Competence is more than just technical knowledge.
A truly competent physician is attentive to patients and treats each one with respect and without bias of any kind. If your doctor is rude or treats you in a perfunctory or rushed manner, consider looking elsewhere for medical care. Order and cleanliness. A doctor's appearance and the physical condition of the doctor's office provide important clues to kind of care you will receive. A dirty, disorganized office may signal trouble.