Highmark helps patients find ‘Dr. Right’
Program connects you to a doctor before you’re in a paper gown
More than 200 South Hills residents who are looking for a new physician — a “Dr. Right’’ — were on hand for the most recent session of a Highmark Inc. initiative that matches patients with a doctor.
The health system has held five such “Meet Dr. Right” events for folks to find a doctor who is in their network and who understands their particular needs. The latest was held last week at Jefferson Hospital in Jefferson Hills.
“We find that members struggle to find doctors in their network,” said Stephanie Ausefski, a Highmark marketing strategist.
And, she said, there is also the added benefit of meeting a potential doctor in a more comfortable place.
“It’s great to get to know your doctor before you’re in a paper gown,” she said. “This is a chance to talk on a personal level to see if they’re a good fit.’’
Louise Urban, hospital president, added that the event was “a great opportunity to welcome the community to the hospital.’’
About 30 doctors attended, including primary care physicians, obstetricians and gynecologists, cardiologists, surgeons, bariatric surgeons and pediatricians.
Also available were Highmark’s myCare Navigators and customer service representatives to answer questions about insurance.
Mohan Bhat, an internal medicine physician with Century III Medical Associates in West Mifflin, said he liked meeting new people.
“I listen to what they’re looking for in a physician,” he said.
“It’s just fun to talk to people,” said Robert Kraftowitz, who also practices at Century III Medical. He said he met quite a few potential patients who were looking for a new doctor closer to their homes.
“It’s been wonderful. I’m thrilled to be able to meet the community,” said Todd Wolynn, a physician with Kids Plus Pediatrics in Pleasant Hills.
Melissa Bova, a physician’s assistant with Jefferson Hills Surgical Specialists, was on hand to share information about bariatric surgery. She works with surgeon Tunc Aksehirli in Jefferson Hills.
“It’s really great to be out in the community,” Ms. Bova said. “It makes things a little more approachable.”
Michael Lang of Baldwin, who said he was looking for a new foot doctor and a back specialist, attended with his wife, Mary Ann.
“I found a guy for my foot,” Mr. Lang said.
Cindy Bates of West Mifflin attended with her aunt, Alberta Webb of Duquesne. Ms. Webb was looking for a new primary care doctor who has experience with senior patients.
“We’re looking for someone convenient, close to home and with great hours,” Ms. Bates said, adding she likes to meet her aunt’s physicians.
“You have to be able to talk to them about anything,” Ms. Webb said of what she was looking for in a doctor. “I also like them to be happy,” she said.
Highmark will be holding two more “Meet Dr. Right” events. The first will be at the Peters Township Health and Wellness Pavilion Aug. 25, and the second will be at the Bethel Park Health and Wellness Pavilion Sept. 17. Each event runs from 5 to 8 p.m.
Register online at www.meet-dr-right.com.