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Pregnancy Today's Health Advisory Panel Answers:
Can I choose my favorite doctor to deliver my
baby?
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Question
I am five weeks pregnant and seeing an OB-Gyn doctor in a Primary Care
Center. There are 11 doctors in this center and a nurse has suggested that
I see all 11 doctors during my pregnancy, since I won't know who is going
to deliver the baby. She suggested that I'd better know each one of them
before the day comes. The doctors at this center deliver babies by certain
schedule, not by patient's request. Is it a good idea to see so many
doctors during my pregnancy? Is there a law or regulation to protect
patients and require that the medical care provider respect patients'
choices? Can I choose my favorite doctor to deliver my baby? - May
Pittsburgh
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Answer
This is not an unusual situation and is going to become more common as
groups merge during the managed care era. I'm not aware of a law that gives
you the right to tell a provider they must deliver you. However, you do
have the right to choose to bring your business to a group that practices
in a style which you prefer.
Remember, providers have rights too. There are laws preventing them
from abandoning a patient, but as long as they provide competent
coverage (that you are aware of), they have the right to work by their
preferred schedule. Find a group that offers the service you prefer.
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