How long does a doctor have to be practicing before he/she is considered good? is a 7 year residency at st. joesph medical center in phoenix, az good?

Many factors: Residencies vary in length. Primary care fields generally have shorter residencies while surgical fields are 5 years or greater in length. As a doc practices longer, one gains in experience so that helps in overall patient care. In choosing a doctor, training is important, but consider one's bedside manner and reputation amongst other patients as well. Abms board certification is key.

A few years for most: In general sweet spot" for doctors is a few years out of training but not too many. However, doctors are like any other professionals -some are better than others. Seven years in residency should count for something, but not if it was a five year residency! to check the quality of the doctor look at your state licensing body. https://fortress.wa.gov/doh/providercredentialsearch/searchcriteria.asp.