Qualifications Are Important—But They Are Not the Whole Story
Patients often ask:
"How do I know I'm choosing the right clinician?"
Qualifications are certainly important, but they are only one part of the decision.
Experience, communication, clinical judgement and patient-centred care are equally important.
The goal is to choose someone who can accurately diagnose your problem, explain your options clearly and recommend treatment that is appropriate for your individual situation.
Registration Matters
In Australia, you should ensure your healthcare professional is appropriately registered with the relevant national registration board.
Registration demonstrates that the practitioner has met professional standards relating to education, training and ongoing professional development.
Experience With Your Specific Problem
An ingrown toenail that has never been treated before is very different from one that has:
- Returned multiple times.
- Been previously operated on.
- Developed a nail spicule.
- Become chronically infected.
- Become significantly deformed.
It is reasonable to ask whether the clinician regularly manages cases similar to yours.
Does the Clinician Offer More Than One Treatment?
Be cautious if only one treatment option is discussed.
Good clinical practice usually involves explaining:
- Conservative treatment.
- Temporary procedures.
- Permanent procedures.
- The advantages of each.
- The disadvantages of each.
- Why one option is recommended over another.
Patients deserve to understand why a particular treatment is being suggested.
Communication Is a Clinical Skill
A good clinician should explain:
- Your diagnosis.
- Why the problem has occurred.
- The expected outcome.
- Possible risks.
- Recovery.
- Alternatives.
You should leave the consultation understanding your treatment rather than feeling confused.
Are Questions Welcome?
A clinician who welcomes questions usually demonstrates confidence in their assessment and treatment plan.
You should never feel uncomfortable asking about:
- Risks.
- Success rates.
- Recovery.
- Previous experience.
- Alternative treatments.
These are entirely reasonable questions.
Online Reviews
Patient reviews may provide useful insights into communication, organisation and patient experience.
However, reviews should be interpreted carefully.
No healthcare professional receives positive reviews from every patient, and online comments should never replace your own assessment during a consultation.
Evidence Update
Effective communication, shared decision-making and clinician experience are recognised contributors to improved patient satisfaction and better healthcare outcomes across a wide range of medical and surgical conditions.
Patient Tip
Choose a clinician who explains your condition clearly enough that you could comfortably explain it to a family member afterwards.