Finding Doctors (insurance, co-op, school)

[Robert A. Johnson]

How difficult is it to find a family doctor in the area? Are there any physician run co-op style groups?(where you pay an annual retainer for services, etc)

[Padgett2]

The telephone book has pages of doctor's names. There would be no problem in finding one. Anything from solo practices to large group practices. The two hospitals groups also have family type groups in various locations throughout the city and count. Having a doctor near where you live is much better than having to travel several miles through heavy traffic.

You need to figure out which hospital you wish to go to. A good many doctors do not practice at both. There is Memorial, a teaching hospital linked to the Mercer Medical School, and the St Joseph/Candler group, which has two complexes located in different sections of the area.

I could even give you the name of my son, who has a solo practice. You may need to visit a few until you find one that suits you. Choosing a family doctor is important.

[Savannah2009]

I'd recommend Candler - just had some surgery and the hospital was absolutely wonderful, the doctors I dealt with actually seem to care. Of course, I'm sure others have had different experiences! I had to go with a primary care physician that took my insurance - that's ususally the best way to find someone! Blue Cross has a system that allows you to go on and review the ranks of the physicians and see patient recommendations. I found that very helpful.

[Robert A. Johnson]

Thanks! I would appreciate knowing your son's name.