My insurance doesn't require referrals to specialists. I've never seen a specialist for a specific problem that wasn't initiated and referred by my doctor. If I want/need to see a specialist for something, does it make sense to see my doctor first and ask for a referral, or find a (random) specialist myself? On the other side, when does a doctor not give referrals? [more inside]
posted by mock muppet on May 11, 2013 - 8 answers

Am I wrong about how primary care vs. specialists works or is my doctor's offfice badly managed? [more inside]
posted by Jahaza on Oct 23, 2012 - 22 answers

Does anyone know a good vascular surgeon/varicose vein specialist in the Bay Area? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Mar 23, 2012 - 2 answers

I am looking for a Throat and vocal specialist in the Metro Detroit area. [more inside]
posted by eve28 on Feb 2, 2012 - 5 answers

How does one find a specialist in your area? [more inside]
posted by anonymous on Apr 20, 2011 - 5 answers

I need a doctor to look at my poor, sprained ankle! He or she has to be in nyc and has to see me before 9am or after 5pm. Help! [more inside]
posted by silverstatue on Jun 9, 2010 - 7 answers

Should I find a new doctor, and if so, must I start from scratch? My long-time rheumatologist has moved out of state and I have an appointment this week to see her successor. I have "iffy" feelings about him based on one phone conversation. Long backstory inside. I know YANMD, but I'd appreciate opinions from both medical professionals and consumers. [more inside]
posted by Oriole Adams on Mar 2, 2010 - 9 answers

How to get the care you need when you just cant seem to find the way around the blockade?Hillsboro/Portland/Beaverton area of Oregon [more inside]
posted by Jenny is Crafty on Jun 19, 2007 - 21 answers