How To Find a Doctor in Baltimore

Is there a doctor in the house? With two medical schools and dozens of medical facilities in Baltimore, the answer is usually a resounding yes. But that doesn't make it easy to find a doctor for you and your your family.

Whether you're new to Baltimore or just looking for a change, check here for the resources to help you find a doctor who's right for you.

Here's How:

1. Personal Recommendations
   Asking friends, co-workers and other medical practitioners for recommendations is one common source for potential candidates. Be sure to ask for more than just a name. Question people about what they like and dislike about this physician. Personal recommendations are helpful, but only one piece of the puzzle.
   
   
2. Insurance companies
   Check your insurance company's physician directory. These are often broken down geographically, which is convenient when finding a doctor close to home is an important criterion.
   
   
3. Publications
   Every year Baltimore Magazine surveys area physicians about who they rate as the region's "Top Docs" and publishes the list.
   
   
4. Medical centers
   Also hospitals, which often have referral phone lines and websites to promote their own physicians and services, are a good way to find a doctor in a certain area. Hospital directory links sometimes have photos and short bios as well. Medical offices inside hospitals are convenient to labs, X-rays and other diagnostic services.
   • Below are some links to area hospitals' physician referral links:
     
     • Franklin Square Hospital -- near White Marsh in Eastern Baltimore County
     • Greater Baltimore Medical Center -- next to, but unaffiliated with, Sheppard Pratt psychiatric facility in Towson
     • Harbor Hospital -- on the water in South Baltimore
     • The Johns Hopkins Hospital -- JHU's medical campus and hospital is north of Fells Point
     • Mercy Medical Center -- on the north side of downtown
     • St. Agnes Hospital -- inside the city line near Catonsville
     • St. Joseph Medical Center -- just south of Towson's downtown
     • Sinai Hospital -- off Northern Parkway near Pimlico Race Course
     • Union Memorial Hospital -- in Charles Village
     • University of Maryland Medical Center -- on the west side of downtown, UM is both a medical school and hospital
   
   

5. Talk to the Staff
   Once the field is narrowed to a few candidates, call their offices. Talk to the staff about some of the questions below.

   • Is the doctor accepting new patients? Does he or she accept your insurance? (Ask even if the doctor is listed in your insurance company's directory.) Will the staff file insurance claims?
   • What are the doctor's office hours? Does the doctor practice in any other office? If so, what are the hours and location of that office?
   • Where does the doctor have hospital privileges? Is the doctor board certified in his or her specialty?
   • How long is the usual waiting time to get a routine appointment? A new patient appointment? How long is the average wait in the office?
   • How does the office handle urgent care appointments and requests for same-day appointments? When does the physician return phone calls? How is coverage provided when the doctor is on vacation?
   • Is free parking available? Is the office close to public transportation? Is the office handicapped accessible?
   
   
   
6. Talk to the Doctor
   Many doctors will make time for a short interview in person or by phone. There is sometimes a charge for this, and insurance may not cover it. However, it may be a worthwhile investment. The office staff can fill you in on the practicalities, so spend time with the doctor trying to get a sense of how well you could work with this person. When speaking with the doctor, note how well he or she listens and explains. If you have a specific condition, ask about the doctor's experience with it.