What to Do When Your Physician Dismisses You as a Patient

Finding out your doctor can no longer see you is a jarring experience that can leave you feeling dismissed and anxious about your health. 

In this episode of Take Care, host Melody Mulaik demystifies the process of "physician dismissal." You’ll learn why this happens, what legal protections you have against patient abandonment, and most importantly, the immediate steps you need to take to ensure your care isn't interrupted.

In this episode, Melody discusses:

• [00:45] The Hard Truth: Can a doctor really "fire" a patient?
• [01:10] Understanding Patient Abandonment: Why they can’t just stop caring for you without notice.
• [02:00] The Notice Period: What to look for in your formal written communication.
• [03:00] The Action Plan: Securing medical records and ensuring you have access to prescriptions.
• [04:00] Finding Your New Provider: Resources, insurance tips, and referral advice.
• [04:45] Your Rights: When and how to contact your state medical board.