Whether you’re experiencing specific symptoms or need a routine check-up, select the best gynaecologist or urologist to ensure you receive the highest quality care.
Adulting can get tricky, we know. And when it comes to medical care, many of us tend to just figure things out as we go along. However, this often costs us a lot of time and money, especially when we get steered in the wrong direction by bad recommendations.
When you’re dealing with the health of your organs, though, you really shouldn’t be shooting into the dark and hoping a solution will find you. And let’s be real: nobody wants strangers dabbling in their nether region, let alone having to move from one stranger to another!
To make things easier and less awkward, there are better ways to find your ‘medical match’ and foster a long-lasting, positive doctor-patient relationship.
Seek recommendations
Start your search by seeking recommendations from trusted sources. Ask your primary care physician, friends or family members for referrals.
Word-of-mouth recommendations often provide valuable insights into the expertise and patient experience offered by different gynaecologists and urologists.
Verify credentials
Before making a decision, verify their credentials and experience. Ensure they are board-certified and have the necessary qualifications to practice in their field.
Research their specialities
Urology and gynaecology encompass various sub-specialities. Determine which area you require assistance with and find a specialist who has expertise in that field.
For example, if you’re experiencing kidney stone issues, look for a urologist who specialises in stone disease. For women, consider whether you need a general gynae or a specialist in reproductive health, menopause or infertility.
Evaluate communication and bedside manner
A good doctor should make you feel comfortable and valued as a patient. During your initial consultation, assess their communication style, listening skills and how well they address your concerns.
A doctor who takes the time to explain medical concepts in an understandable manner and actively involves you in the decision-making process is essential for building a trusted doctor-patient relationship.
Check insurance coverage
Before making your final choice, confirm whether the urologist or gynaecologist is covered by your health insurance plan. Contact your insurance provider to understand the specific coverage details and any potential out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.
“A DOCTOR WHO TAKES THE TIME TO EXPLAIN MEDICAL CONCEPTS AND ACTIVELY INVOLVES YOU IN DECISION- MAKING IS ESSENTIAL.”
Know the difference
Look, we get the confusion. Sometimes it’s hard to know or feel what exactly is happening ‘down there’. Here’s how to distinguish between specialists:
Gynaecologist Specialist in the care of the female reproductive system. This includes the ovaries, vagina, uterus and cervix.
This is who women see regarding Pap smears, menstrual cycle irregularities, pregnancy check-ups, contraceptive options and cervical abnormalities. Urologist Specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of problems with the urinary tract (the bladder, kidneys, ureter and urethra) in both female and male patients, and the male reproductive system in general – to treat disorders related to the epididymis, penis, prostate, seminal vesicles and testes.
Women will get referred to a urologist in the event of bladder control issues, UTIs, urinary stones, painful bladder syndrome or related cancers.
Consider hospital affiliations
Take into account the hospital or medical centre with which the gynaecologist or urologist is affiliated.
Research the facility’s reputation, quality of care and the availability of advanced medical technologies. Being associated with a reputable institution can provide you with access to more comprehensive services and a network of specialists, if needed.
Read patient reviews
Online platforms and patient review websites can offer valuable insights into the experiences of others who have visited a particular specialist.
While individual reviews should be taken with a grain of salt, pay attention to overall trends and common feedback regarding the doctor’s professionalism and competence, and the overall patient experience.
Words by: Charndré Emma Kippie.
Photographs: Gallo/Getty Images, Pexels
