Finding a good specialist

Who are good endocrinologists in the San Francisco area that accept MediCal? I think I have either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism because of anti-depression meds I have been taking for over 16 years. I originally thought it was mental health issues but the symptoms don’t lie.

It has taken a serious toll on my personal and professional life and need help. I am now almost broke, almost homeless, might have to sell my car (that may become my home soon).

Worried Sick

Dear Worried Sick,

Try Healthgrades > Find a Doctor where you can search for specialists in your area, and see which insurances they accept.  I found 42 endocrinologists in San Francisco that accept MediCal.

As for whether a particular doctor is “good” or “bad”, that is a much more complex question.  Healthgrades gives you customer reviews, but not anything that could be called quality measures.  Though everyone talks about how to do this, we are far away from having doctors display their “stars” in their waiting room like restaurants show their Michelin rating. Instead, most people ask their doctor, friends, or neighbors for a recommendation. Of the three sources of information, your doctor may be the best.

Linda Riddell

About Linda Riddell

A published author and health policy analyst with 25 years’ experience, Linda Riddell's goal is to alleviate the widespread ailment of not knowing what your health plan can do for you.