Q. I have been seeing the same primary care doctor for the last 18 years. I really feel like he understands me and knows my health history. I recently learned that he will be retiring soon. How do I go about choosing a new doctor after all these years? 

As we age, having a doctor who knows our health history and listens to us is so important. How wonderful that you have had a good primary care doctor for all these years! Finding a new doctor can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to find someone who meets your needs.  The National Institute on Aging has a few suggestions for choosing a new primary care doctor: 

Know what matters to you: Think about whether you would prefer a geriatrician, family practitioner or internist. Do you want to see a man or a woman? Consider whether you want a doctor affiliated with a certain hospital, or a doctor in a group or individual practice.  Make a list of your preferences, and then decide which qualities are most important to you. 

Ask around: Ask friends, relatives, and medical specialists for the names of doctors that they would recommend. If you belong to a managed care plan, you may be required to choose a doctor in their plan. Check their website for information on their doctors’ backgrounds and credentials.  

Gather information online: For a list of doctors who participate in Medicare, visit their website at www.medicare.gov/care-compare. You can get information about doctors licensed here in Massachusetts on the website findmydoctor.mass.gov. 

Call the office: Once you have narrowed down your list, call their offices to get information on a doctor’s qualifications and office policies. You may also want to set up an appointment to meet with a doctor you are considering. After the appointment, ask yourself if this doctor is a person with whom you could work well. If you are not satisfied, schedule a visit with one of your other candidates. 

Finding a new doctor after so many years can feel like a big change. But it’s also an opportunity to find someone who will listen to you, respect your choices, and support your health. Take your time, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. I wish you the best in your search. 

AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.