You're moving to a new town, and it's time to get organized. Of all the things on your "to do" list, one that should be at the top is choosing a new doctor. It may be tempting to simply turn to the yellow pages of the phone book for names of doctors, "but this is probably one of the worst ways to select a physician. You need to consider a number of factors, including their qualifications, their location, and your personal medical needs," says Dr. George Bergus, associate professor in family practice at the University of Iowa College of Medicine.

"Select a physician before you actually need one," Bergus says. The worst time to search for one is when you're ill. Like going grocery shopping when you are hungry, you tend to take the first thing you see, he explains. Instead, before you move, ask your physician for recommendations of doctors in your new town, especially if you have active medical problems or young children. If you are relatively young and healthy, Bergus suggests finding a physician within three or four months of your move.

"When selecting a doctor, first consider which hospital will be convenient for you. Since most doctors are associated with a particular hospital, it's helpful to select a physician who is associated with the hospital of your choice," Bergus says. Then, begin searching for a specific physician to meet your needs. Most hospitals have a physician-finding service to provide you with information. The county medical society is also a good source of information on physicians. Next, consider what kind of primary care physician would best suit your needs. Family doctors, obstetricians/gynecologists, general internists, and pediatricians are qualified to provide primary care and can refer patients to specialists.

Check the qualifications of each doctor. "You may want to rely on word-of-mouth recommendations, but it's a good idea to look first at the objective facts," he says. Check if the doctor is board certified, by which board and on what date. The county medical society or the physician's staff should be able to answer these questions. The certification date can be important because some doctors are required to be re-examined at specific intervals. Other sources of information can be the state board of medical examiners and the newspaper. Discipline of doctors is a part of public record, and you can find out if a doctor's license has been revoked or limited.

"Once you use these tools to find out about competence, then word-of-mouth information becomes important," Bergus says. By talking with others, you can gather information about a particular physician's manner and personality. "Keep in mind that physicians are people, too, and choosing a physician is similar to choosing your friends. Pay attention to your feelings," he adds.

If you're unhappy with your first visit, "be up-front about it. Tell your physician about your dissatisfaction--perhaps you felt you didn't receive enough time," Bergus says. If his or her response indicates that the problem can and will be resolved, consider remaining with that physician. If you feel the problem can't be resolved, try another physician on your list.

"People probably won't find perfection, but they can find a physician with whom to have a good, long-standing relationship," Bergus adds.