Until the day medical malpractice and other such information is widely available to consumers of healthcare, it is best to do everything possible to do research on a potential healthcare professional. It is important to find out when the doctor started practicing, where they went to school and how many surgeries they have performed (if that is the treatment sought). Ask for referrals from friends and call a local Medical Board. Ask the hospital or medical center where the doctor practices if any complaints or medical malpractice has been previously committed. In today’s atmosphere of distrust and potential tort reform it is imperative to cover all bases before undergoing the care of a medical professional because the healthcare consumer’s choices are being limited