Choosing a Physician

Once you've chosen your hospital, ask for a list of its attending or affiliated cardiologists (medical doctors who specialize in the heart)or cardiothoracic (heart and chest) surgeons. (These are community cardiologists who have "privileges" at that hospital, meaning they are on the medical staff and can admit patients to that hospital for care.) Or call the hospital's physician referral service for the names of physicians who meet your needs. Bridgeport Hospital's Physician Referral Program can give you information about more than 20 cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons. Click the hyperlink, or call 1-888-357-2396.

Get as much information as you can about the physicians you are considering. Bridgeport Hospital's Physician Referral Program can provide the following information:

• Where they went to medical school
• Where they performed their residency (3-6 years of hospital-based training)
• Whether they are solo or in a group practice and who else is in the practice
• How long they have been in practice
• Board certification (meaning that they have passed an examination in their area of expertise)
• Office addresses and phone numbers
• What insurance plans they accept

Why is all of this important to you? Each piece of information can help you make an informed decision based on your needs. You may want a cardiologist whose office is close to your place of work or your home. You may have special insurance requirements.

Ask friends, colleagues, and family for physician recommendations. Seek physician referrals from nurses or other healthcare professionals. In the end, your decision is a personal one. You may want to meet with some of the physicians and talk to them to see if you are comfortable with their personal style.

Other physician information you may want to gather
If you need a specific procedure or treatment for a serious medical problem, ask the physician how many times he or she has performed the procedure, and ask for outcome measurements, such mortality (death) rates, complication rates, 5-year survival rates, quality-of-life measurements, etc. related to the procedure you may need.

You may also want to ask the physician:

• How long will you wait before getting an appointment with the physician?
• Is the physician willing to abide by the wishes you express in your Living Will?
• Is the physician willing to perform procedures without the use of blood transfusions or blood products if that is your choice?

Call the physician's office. Is the staff friendly and courteous? Are you comfortable with the general manner and treatment style of the physician? Do you feel compatible with the physician? Is the office clean and comfortable? Ask the Department of Health if any disciplinary actions have been taken against the physician.

Finding the right doctor for you and your family is an important decision. Bridgeport Hospital's Physician / Services Referral is here to help. Call 1-888-357-2396.