How to check out a doc's background and education

Bianca

Hey all! I'm posting this just about everywhere because I think it's sooooooo important to know. Sorry if it annoys anyone.
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To check out a doctor, track down your state certification board. Search the net or check the blue pages. As an example, the Arizona Medical Board is www.bomex.org (I think the name is a throwback to
Board of Medical Examiners)

Look for the "doctor search" (or something like it) and type in the name. At the Arizona site it includes files on
Physician Assistants and Medical Residents. This is about what you'll get access to:

LICENSING- when first received in the state and last renewed
EDUCATION- where they attended & graduation date, plus everywhere they served as residents
Their area(s) of specialization
COMPLAINTS- any hearings, disciplinary action, or the complaints dismissed
CRIMINAL INFO- any criminal convictions or "no contest" pleas, or malpractice cases ending in judgement, settlement, or payment

Don't freak if you see any negative marks, often times they are complaints about billing practices, or other non-medical items.

For the specifics you'll probably have to go to the office to see the actual paper file. Call first so they can pull the file for you. Here in Az you have to read it in the office and if you want copies they make them. There may be a small fee for this.

For info on a nurse, there's a board for that. For example, here it's the Arizona State Board of Nursing.

For info on a Doctor of Osteopathy (my family doctor is a D.O.), same thing goes. Ex:Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners

Just remember this is all PUBLIC RECORD and you have the right to see it. I've checked on every doctor I've seen, before I even make the appointment.

Hope this will help someone out there!
Bianca