What is the best way to choose a healthcare provider? how do i decide on the best place to give birth?

Ask your friends: This is usually the best way, since people you know and trust can give you an honest opinion on their experience with healthcare providers and hospitals where you may be interested in delivering. That being said, you should still check to be sure your providers are properly credentialled and the hospital is also properly certified.

Word of mouth: One of the best ways to choose a healthcare provider is by word of mouth. The recommendations of your friends, family and colleagues can be very useful in knowing whom to trust. You can choose a doctor/provider based on the hospital system you prefer, or if you are happy with your doctor you will be treated by them at any hospital at which they have privileges to practice.

Internet resources: If you are new to a community and need to choose a physician, you can use the internet as a resource to find board certified physicians, or those whom are practicing at the hospital of yoru choice. There are reviews available of physicians online, which should be taken with a grain of salt, but can at least give you an idea of your care provider's education and background.

Get recommendations: Talk to your friends-- word of mouth is a good place to start. Check their credentials online, verify board certifications. Check malpractice history or board complaints. Check your hospital-- how many deliveries do they do?, is anesthesia in house 24/7?, is nicu available? If you are using a birthing center-- do they have physician back up? What hospital would you go to in an emergency?