If you were a patient how would you choose your doctor?

Many ways: We're all patients at one time or another, aren't we? I'd be looking for a doctor with whom i can communicate, who's up to date in his/her specialty, who has time for me as a patient, and who's not afraid to say "i don't know." i would ask my friends and colleagues for suggestions, and would probably also check internet reviews although those can be misleading. Practice web sites can tell a lot.

Choices: First & foremost - competence. When choosing a surgeon, would select technical skill over bedside manner. I want someone who pays enough attention to detail that they get the right diagnosis (without being so detailed that they lose the forest for the trees). Like dr. Pappas - i want someone who is confident & honest enough to say when they don't know. Feeling heard & cared about is so important.