The word "doctor" come from the Latin word teacher.  This means not only do we help and pledge to do no harm but we teach.  We teach how to live a healthy lifestyle, we teach exercises, we teach how to de-stress, sleep and sit properly as well as anything else that comes up.

Wanting and becoming a doctor takes dedication.  It is a calling and part of who we are.  Just like everything else, there are average doctors, below average doctors and above average doctors.  When you see a doctor and they are licensed, you know they had the proper training and have accountability to what they have learned in school.  Understanding health goes without saying but there are other aspects of being a doctor that help you become a great doctor! So how do you know?  

Tips for finding a great doctor:

1. Great doctors know how to communicate.  

They don't need to use big words or try and impress.  Not everyone understands medical terminology just like not everyone understands engineering or programming terminology. Doctors should communicate in words that a patient understands.  Once patients understand what is going on, they can make decisions about their health that are right for them. Doctors and patients are a team and making sure each person is on the same page really helps.

2. They have empathy and you feel cared for.

Sometimes when seeing a doctor, you may feel like a number.  Great doctors understand that everyone is different and though there may be similarities with physical ailments, not all treatments work the same for each person.  A great doctor takes time to understand what is going on with you and what you have experienced in your life and take all of this into consideration when providing treatment.  Understanding you and what your needs are goals are is key to helping you to optimal health. 

3. Do they work with other providers?

When seeing a doctor, there may come a time when you are stay stagnant in care.  If you had a goal and have reached it and want to maintain where you are then that is okay but if you are still trying to heal and it has been 6 months, then it may be time to add something or someone new to the mix.  Doctors should be open to this and refer out when necessary.  

4. What is their "bedside manner"?

Doctors should listen not preach to you as a patient.  Now, if you ask an opinion and they give it that is one thing but a doctor who doesn't listen to what you are saying or empathize with your situation is a doctor that does not have your goals in mind. They may have their own agenda or think they know what is going on and shut off when you are telling them something they think is not in line with their own perception.  Do they have compassion, respect and honesty?  These are great qualities for a doctor to have so if you feel talked down to or not listened to, then it is not the right doctor for you.  Remember doctors are people not gods.

Find a doctor that you vibe with is hard sometimes.  Both doctor and patient should feel comfortable together.  You should leave their office happy and energized, not uncomfortable.  

Dr. Amie Gregory is a San Francisco holistic practitioner - chiropractor in the mission district.  She is a great doctor who has been helping patients stay healthy since 2008.  She not only applies chiropractic skills to each treatment but understands exercises, physical therapy, nutrition, and several alternative methods.  She has learned many different ways to help people so she can apply the right treatments and advice for your needs. 

Set up an appointment today, you won't regret it. https://www.schedulicity.com/scheduling/PMCPD3P

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References: https://www.sgu.edu/blog/medical/what-makes-a-good-doctor/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CPhysicians%20should%20be%20personable%2C%20great,the%20concerns%20of%20their%20patients.%22