Biggest Factors When Choosing a New Doctor.

• Position: HEALTH CARE

Finding an in-network, affordable doctor is the top priority for patients when selecting their physicians and health-care facilities, according to a study by Weatherby Health Care, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. When choosing a new physician, patients consider whether a provider is in-network--51% labeled in-network care as critical--while also weighing potential out-of-pocket costs. Apart from financial drivers, 70% of respondents said a convenient location either was critical or very important.

"More than 20,000,000 people have gained access to health care in the past seven years as a result of government legislation. It's important that we know what patients are looking for in their healthcare providers so physicians and health-care organizations can better attend to the needs of these individuals," says Bill Heller, president. "This study shows us that patients really care about simple, hassle-free access to health care and doctors who are available and kind."

Other key findings from the study include:

Patient satisfaction grows with age. In particular, 82% of patients over the age of 55 are satisfied with their physicians. Among patients 18 to 34, that rate drops to 67%.

Competence counts. Patients rate a physician's knowledge and abilities above all other...