How Do You Check A Doctors Credentials?
Every few months, there is a report that either an unlicensed physician or someone not even a physician has been caught practicing medicine. The reaction is usually the same–a clucking of tongues about the lack of medical oversight and an admonition that patients need to check their doctor’s credentials. If we happen to see our doctor’s diplomas prominently displayed on his or her wall, we sigh and say, “mine’s okay,” and that may not be so. Realize that diplomas mean nothing. They are easily forged because who would recognize a forgery? Know if your doctor is board certified. Being board certified means that in the specific field the doctor has not only had specialty training but also passed an examination–or ongoing examinations–testing his or her competence. Realize that a doctor need not be board certified to claim competence in a certain field. Check with the American Board of Medical Specialties for board certification. Understand that the American Board of Medical Specialties
