Finding a Provider
If you have a primary care doctor, start by speaking with him or her about how you are feeling. Ask for his or her advice. If you don't have a doctor, look in the yellow pages or talk to someone at your local senior center, hospital, or university for the name of a person who can diagnose and treat anxiety.
How to choose a provider
Once you have found a provider, you will want to make sure that he or she is the right person to help you deal with anxiety. You should feel at ease with this person. When you meet the provider, ask yourself if you would feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and emotions with him or her.
The following questions can help you to "interview" your provider. The decision of who to see for treatment is important, and it's YOUR choice.
Questions about the provider
__ How long have you been practicing?
__Are you licensed?
__ Do you treat people with all types of concerns, or do you have a specialty?
__ Do you specialize in treating older adults?
Questions about treatment
__ What kind of treatment(s) do you use?
__ Do you think that this treatment will work for me?
__ How long will the treatment last?
__ Do you ever involve family members in treatment?
Questions about payment
__ What are your fees?
__ Do you accept my insurance/HMO/Medicare?
__ If you don't accept any of these forms of payment, do you have a sliding scale plan or can we set up a payment plan?
(Source : APA)
Getting treatment for anxiety is important because:
•The sooner treatment starts, the faster a person begins to feel better.
•As with other serious illnesses, professional help is needed.
Click for a printable version: Questions about a Provider (accessible PDF.)
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