You may find at one time or another, that you need the services of a private physician or dentist. To obtain private services in advance, you should begin looking for a physician or dentist as soon as possible. This is especially important for the married student whose spouse or children are not enrolled as full time students and who therefore, are not eligible for on-going medical care at University Health Services. Lists of local practitioners are found under "Dentists" and "Physicians" in the yellow pages of the phone directories. In addition, you may contact Centre Community Hospital to find out which physicians have hospital privileges. Their number is (814) 231-7000.

University Health Services cannot suggest specific physicians in the community. However, the following Consumer Guidelines and Basic Questions You Need to Answer Before and During the Search Process are provided to assist you in choosing the healthcare provider who best suits you needs. A Glossary of Medical Specialties and Professions is also listed.

Return to top of page

Consumer Guidelines

Choosing a health care provider you're comfortable with means finding one who meets your particular needs. There are several basic questions, listed here, which can help you ask the right questions when calling medical offices. Definitions of some medical specialties are also listed. Remember, as a patient, you always have the right to change primary or specialty providers if you so desire.

Return to top of page

Basic Questions You Need to Answer Before and During the Search Process

	Do you prefer a male or female provider?
	Determine type of specialty you desire (see further on in this document for definitions)
	Office location, Is it near public transportation? If you drive, is there parking?
	Office hours, do they have evening appointments?
	Number of years in practice
	Special professional interests and services
	Professional credentials, Is the person board certified?
	What are their fees? What methods of payment do they accept? Do they accept your     personal insurance? Will they bill you or your insurance company?
	If they do not accept your insurance plan, will they accept patients who must pay with     cash or credit card?
	Do they practice by themselves, in a group, or in an HMO?
	When the provider is ill or on vacation, who sees his/her patients?
	What do you do if you need medical attention after-hours?
	What is their availability in emergencies? Will they give advice about minor complaints     over the phone, or is an office visit necessary?
	Does the provider have hospital privileges?