CHECK-UP: Wednesday, March 30 just happens to be “National Doctors’ Day,” and the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is encouraging individuals to give their own doctors a “check-up” to make sure they continue to be the right doctor for them and their loved ones.

“Choosing an appropriate physician for yourself and your family is an important decision,” noted Greg Ogrinc, MD, MS, ABMS senior vice president of Certification Standards and Programs. “The good news is that there are free tools you can use to find the right professional for you and your family.”

The following are a series of Check-Up questions to consider asking yourself about you and your family’s physicians:

1. Does your doctor make you feel respected and listened to? Do you feel that you are getting the care you need?

If not, have a conversation with your doctor, so that they can make improvements. If your needs are still not being met, choose another physician that may be a better fit.

2. Is your doctor licensed to practice in your state? Has a state medical board disciplined your doctor?

To find potential answers to these questions, look up your doctor on the Federation of State Medical Boards’ free web site, www.docinfo.org.

3. Is your doctor board certified in their specialty by an ABMS Member Board?

This certification would indicate that they are skilled and knowledgeable, an expert in their specialty, and meet a higher standard. Becoming board certified by one of the 24 ABMS Member Boards demonstrates that a physician has gone above and beyond basic medical training to become an expert in that specialty. See if your doctor is certified on the ABMS free website at www.CertificationMatters.org.