When you’re looking for a doctor to treat you or your child for eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) — whether it’s an allergist, a gastroenterologist, or a primary care physician — you want to feel confident they’ll take excellent care of you.

Part of finding the right health care provider is asking the right questions. Asking questions helps you get a feel for what it’s like to talk with the doctor and to ensure they’ll provide the care you need.

Here are some questions to ask when talking to a doctor about EoE. These questions can also be useful when seeking other types of providers, such as dietitians or mental health professionals who lead support groups.

1. Are You Accepting New Patients?

Before you get your heart set on a particular doctor, make sure they’re taking new patients. If they aren’t, you don’t need to invest time and energy in asking them anything else. However, if your need isn’t time-sensitive, you may ask to get on their waiting list for later.

2. Do You Take My Insurance?

Treatment for EoE can be expensive. Make sure that a prospective doctor accepts your insurance so you won’t have to cover all medical costs. Some insurance companies may allow you to see a specialist outside their network at a higher cost.

If you can’t get the care you need inside your insurance network, they may let you request coverage for another provider. It’s easiest, though, if your specialist is part of your insurance plan.

3. How Many People With EoE Do You Treat?

Any doctor you choose should have experience treating people with EoE — and better yet, they should be currently treating individuals with the condition. That way, they’re likely well informed about the condition and up to date on the latest treatments and research.

4. How Long Have You Been Treating People With EoE?

This question helps gauge the doctor’s experience with EoE. While a newer doctor may still be effective if they see many people with the condition, experience often provides a deeper understanding. Current treatments for EoE include medications and lifestyle changes, such as elimination diets. Ensure your doctor is familiar with all available options. Long-term experience can also offer insights into how EoE impacts patients over time.

5. What Are Your Credentials?

It’s good to ask whether an allergist, a gastroenterology expert, or another doctor is board-certified in their specialty. It means that they’ve taken extra tests to show that they’re competent in particular areas. Though some people question the value of board certification, it may give you extra confidence in your doctor. You’ll know that they’re qualified to give you or your child the care they need.

6. Do You Stay Up to Date on New EoE Treatments?

A doctor who stays up on current research may give you better access to newer treatment options for EoE. They may also be able to recommend better ways to manage EoE symptoms, like heartburn or a cough. A doctor who can discuss the latest research may help you improve your overall prognosis (outlook) as you live with the condition.

7. Do You Participate in Studies Related to EoE?

While it’s not crucial for most people, having a doctor involved in EoE research can be beneficial, especially if you’re interested in participating in clinical trials. Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or approaches to managing diseases. Being referred by your health care professional can make it easier to access these trials, potentially offering you new and innovative treatment options.

8. Do You Have a Standard Treatment Plan for EoE?

This question can yield valuable information, regardless of the response. A doctor might have a standard initial plan for treating EoE — but they should also be willing to adjust it based on your individual needs. A good doctor listens and makes changes if the treatment isn’t effective for you. Understanding their approach to the treatment journey — whether it starts uniformly and adapts over time — can give you a clearer picture of their care philosophy.

9. Who Will I See at My Appointments?

It’s important to know who will be involved in your care, as some doctors may not be available for every appointment. You might be seen by other doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or nurses during your visits. Understanding who makes up the care team ensures you know who will be managing your treatment and addressing your concerns.

10. Do You Treat People of All Ages?

If multiple members of your household have EoE or you want consistent care for a growing adolescent, it’s important to ask this up front. Having a single doctor for all family members can be more convenient than dealing with different practices or changing doctors as your child transitions to adulthood. This ensures continuity and a better understanding of your family’s medical history.

11. What Happens if I Have an Emergency?

Understanding the protocol for urgent situations is crucial. Ask who to contact, who will see you, and if there’s support to determine whether a hospital visit is necessary. Ask about the availability of telemedicine appointments or a 24-hour advice nurse for emergencies. This information ensures you are prepared and know what to expect in difficult situations.

Effective management of EoE requires a multidisciplinary team approach. Your primary physician should act as the coordinator, working with specialists like gastroenterologists, allergists, dietitians, social workers, and physiotherapists. Asking the right questions ensures that your doctor can provide comprehensive care and seamlessly integrate with other professionals to address all aspects of your condition.

By understanding their approach and ensuring they can meet your needs, you set the foundation for a successful treatment journey.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myEoEcenter, the site for people living with eosinophilic esophagitis and their loved ones, people come together to gain a new understanding of EoE and share their stories with others who understand life with EoE.

How did you find the doctor who treats your EoE? What makes a good EoE doctor? Share your experience in the comments below.