You should be well informed, at all times, of details regarding your condition, testing required, treatment options and possible side effects of whatever treatment method you choose. Ideally, you should be involved in all decisions regarding your treatment. Feel free to ask a lot of questions, as you are entitled to an honest, well informed and respectful response. That s because unlike your primary physician, your specialist must have an in-depth working knowledge of your condition. A patient roster that includes those who suffer from the same ailment doesn t hurt.
Referrals can take several weeks to several months to schedule an appointment.
Your primary physician will help you assess whether your need for care is an emergency, in which case he or she may recommend opting for someone with a shorter waiting list. True, the best specialists are often well worth the wait. Used under License.