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Man or woman? How the sex of your doctor factors into your medical care

More patients are seeking out female doctors because they are better listeners and caretakers.

When it comes to choosing a doctor, how much does whether they are male or female factor into it?

It appears those who prefer a female doctor aren't alone. Researchers have found more patients are seeking out female doctors because they are better listeners and caretakers, took more time finding the right diagnosis and are more likely to include family members when discussing serious illnesses.

There is a little bit of science behind favoring a female doctor. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, 2017 was the first year that more women enrolled in U.S. medical schools than men.

But that's where the good news ends. Female physicians are still paid 26% less than their male peers.

Whether you prefer a male or female doctor, here are a few tips for choosing one that is right for you:

  1. Find a doctor within your age range. As you age, they age with you and can better relate to your health needs
  2. Call the potential doctor's office. You can tell a lot about the kind of care they give by the way the staff answers the phone
  3. Do a quality check with websites like Physician Compare
  4. Make sure they are covered by your insurance

Finding a doctor is a very personal decision and one you should put some research behind.

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