Finding a Doctor
When you're searching for a doctor, it's important to consult trustworthy sources and to have a number of options available. Because not every doctor is suited to every patient, you should have the flexibility to choose from more than one practitioner if you require specialist treatment. Personal or employer provided private health insurance gives you access to a wider range of physicians, so that you may see a qualified doctor whose background and training match your needs.
Finding a Specialist
Health insurance providers facilitate the process of finding a doctor by offering access to privately funded practitioners. The first step in finding a specialist for a specific concern, such as an injury, a skin condition, abdominal discomfort or chronic pain, is to visit your GP for a consultation. Private health insurance providers require that their members receive a referral from their general practitioner, or GP, before visiting a specialist.
Once you've received a referral from your GP, your next step is to contact your insurance provider to request authorisation for the appointment. After the consultation has been approved, you may schedule your appointment with the doctor of your choice. Your GP and insurance provider can provide details for the physicians recommended by your GP. To learn more about a doctor's credentials, contact the hospital where the doctor practices and request information from his or her assistant or secretary.
Because a specialist doctor is often associated with a particular hospital, finding the right doctor may also involve choosing the appropriate hospital. If you are being referred to a doctor for a relatively minor concern, such as a medication adjustment, the proximity of the hospital and convenience of access may be the most important factors in your decision. If you are being referred for a more serious issue, such as hip replacement surgery or an evaluation for cancer, considerations such as patient safety and availability of resources may come first.
You may decide to choose a doctor based on your GP's recommendations, the doctor's credentials and experience and the opinions of other patients who have seen a particular physician. The hospital where the doctor practices may also affect your decision. Infection rates, hospital safety, patient satisfaction, the quality of patient service, diagnostic resources, surgical facilities and other factors may play a part in your decision when you're searching for a hospital.
Finding a Private GP
Whilst many members of private health insurance plans see NHS GPs, others prefer to work with a private doctor. Private GPs offer a number of advantages to their patients, including faster appointments and diagnostic tests, prescription services, routine physical check-ups, vaccinations and travel services. To find a GP through your health insurance company, contact a representative and request a list of general practitioners in your area. Many health insurance companies also offer online databases that give you access to a list of GPs.
When you're choosing a GP, consider a professional's level of experience, areas of special interest, training, background and credentials. Location is an important concern when choosing a GP, especially if you have a family with frequent health care needs. Because your GP is responsible for overseeing your health care and managing referrals to specialists or services, you should feel confident in this practitioner's abilities and trust his or her advice.
Finding a doctor is easier when you have a range of options to choose from. Whether you're searching for a specialist or a general practitioner, you can rely on a private health insurance provider to help you connect with the right medical professionals. A health insurance provider is a valuable source of information on all of the practitioners in its network.
We were actually surprised how easy to use the site was. We found a new policy that has the same coverage as our old one but is 20% cheaper. 
Chloe and Jack A, Cardiff UK
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