Still, there are a few things you can do to help you make the decision.

1. What type of doctor do you need?

For primary care, you essentially have two options, a family practice physician or an internal medicine physician. For children, you can choose between a family practitioner or a pediatrician.

SMC offers board certified family practice and internal medicine physician services through Dr. Pamela Garner and Dr. James Colvert respectively.

2. When do I need to make a decision?

It is best to make your decision before you ever become sick. You should schedule a routine exam, so you can get to know the doctor and they can get to know you.

3. Can anyone recommend a good doctor for me?

You can take a recommendation from anyone you choose, but when it comes right down to it, this is your decision. Your friends and family can help you learn more about a doctor, but it is important that you choose someone you feel you can trust. After all, this is your health, not theirs.

4. When should I go to the doctor's office vs. the emergency department?

Always err on the side of caution, but remember that the emergency department should only be used in the event of an emergency or as a last resort.

Talk to your doctor about your concerns and she/he should be able to help you decide when it is or isn't appropriate to use the emergency department.

If it is during your doctors regular hours, feel free to call the office and ask.

5. How do I spot a good/bad doctor?

Doctors who are licensed and/or board certified are capable of providing sound medical judgment.

There are many differing opinions out there on how to best treat any number of conditions, so to say one doctor is better or worse than another is most generally a personal decision based on your beliefs and your health.

In general, a good doctor listens to you and discusses with you your treatment options. A bad doctor is a doctor that you don't trust to take good care of you.

6. What if I just don't like my doctor?

As with any service provider in your life, whether that's a retail store or a doctor, there may come a point when you become dissatisfied with their service.

If this happens, it is best to work with your doctor's office to either resolve the issues or help you find a new physician. By working with your doctors office, they can help make sure your records are shared with your new doctor.

7. My doctor is being sued. What do I do?

Whether it's a lawsuit or maybe you've just heard about a bad outcome, it is only human to be skeptical of the care you're being provided in lieu of someone else's misfortune.

Just remember that medicine is not an exact science. What works for one, may not work for everyone. And in the end, doctors are every bit as human as you are - they are far from perfect.

Your gut will tell you if you need to switch doctors.